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BUSINESS

networkJULY/AUGUST 2015 CONFERENCE CALL

INTERVIEW ACCOUNTANCY QUIET STORM BOSS EARN TAX BREAKS BY STEVE MEGSON IS A MAN RELOCATING TO A WHO 'LOVES BUSINESS' RENOVATED BUILDING Biz Network JULY AUG 2016_Chamberlink 06/07/2015 09:12 Page 2 Biz Network JULY AUG 2016_Chamberlink 06/07/2015 09:12 Page 3

netBUSINESS work CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2015

NEWS UPDATE 4 MEMBER NEWS Reinterment boost for Leicester economy

11 APPOINTMENTS Movers and shakers of the East Midlands

12 DEALS & MERGERS IT firm connects with financial advisers

13 PATRONS British Heart Foundation funds university

14 CHAMBER NEWS Ian Morgan receives OBE 16 20 INTERNATIONAL TRADE 18 Chamber trade missions to China and India POLITICS 20 What does it really mean for the East Midlands to be the UK’s ‘Engine for Growth’? INTERVIEW 22 Steve Megson, of Quiet Storm Solutions, talks about Love Business East Midlands FEATURES 26 ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES How bringing derelict buildings back to life can offer attractive tax breaks to business

30 CONFERENCE CALL Political parties should expand their horizons when it comes to conference venues

34 REGENERATING THE EAST MIDLANDS Canalside housing scheme boost for former 42 textiles factory in Leicester TRAINING & EVENTS 38 Round-up of what’s on the calendar BUSINESS SUPPORT 40 SKILLS Research highlights skills shortage issue Publishers Kemps Publishing Ltd 11 The Swan Courtyard, Charles Edward Road, 44 PROPERTY Yardley, Birmingham B26 1BU Editor Jon Smart Flagship site to drive Nottingham gateway T: 0333 320 0333 ext 2004 T: 0121 765 4144 w: www.kempspublishing.co.uk Deputy Editor Andy Hibberd 45 LEGAL T: 0333 320 0333 ext 2007 Managing Editor Gillian Shirley Assessing the risks of workplace vehicles T: 0121 765 4144 Leicestershire Contributions Editor Suzanne Farmer E: [email protected] E: [email protected] 46 THE eBUSINESS CLUB Submissions Designer Lloyd Hollingworth Book now for Digital Conference and Expo E: [email protected] Advertising Manager Stephanie Foster Chamber Membership T: 0121 765 4144 47 FINANCE E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Make sure you don’t sleepwalk into retirement Follow the Chamber Printers W: www.emc-dnl.co.uk Twitter: @EMChamberNews Warners (Midlands) plc 48 MOTORING Nick Jones test drives Peugeot’s new ‘go

BUSINESS NETWORK is produced on behalf of East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) by anywhere family estate’ Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members without charge. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chamber nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the COMMENT magazine are not necessarily those of the Chamber. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd. 50 THE LAST WORD Liz Fothergill covers the latest issues

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MEMBER NEWS

IN BRIEF Cloud firms driving M&As King’s reinterment worth Software as a Service (SaaS) firms are driving up mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and £59m to local economy commanding huge valuations, according to Cooper Parry Corporate Finance. An independent assessment found that Leicester’s 20 March 2015, leaving out the time of the reinterment A recent survey by a partner economy was boosted by over £59m by the which they say would have had an unprecedented firm in its global M&A network reinterment of King Richard lll. impact on the city, unlikely to ever be repeated. identified key features driving Focus, based at Phoenix Business Park, Nottingham, Focus analysed a range of indicators including the value in the human resources discovered that the King was the catalyst for number of retail businesses established in the city sector, where SaaS – essentially increasing visitor numbers, the launching of new compared to the region, the growth of cloud hosting with software as part of the deal – is growing at a businesses, job creation and higher hotel occupancy. accommodation and food services, visits to other 7.5 per cent compound annual rate. Associate at Focus, Heather Frecklington, said: local attractions including city museums and heritage The rapid growth generated by “This was a unique event in history. The effects were sites and hotel occupancy. This was in addition to SaaS businesses is driving M&A felt widely on the economy in many ways, including looking at the King Richard lll attractions in the city. activity across the world, with creating jobs and bringing in income.” They calculated 600,000 additional visitors came major international players such Focus looked at the period from September 2012 to to Leicester as a result of King Richard as Sage (UK), Oracle and SAP lll, resulting in an increased spend buying proven technology and a ‘600,000 additional visitors of more than £54.5m. customer lease, thus saving Leicester City Mayor Peter ongoing R&D. came to Leicester as a result of Soulsby said: “The discovery of King Richard lll, resulting in an King Richard lll and his Detoxing for business increased spend of more than subsequent reinterment has had brains £54.5m’ a greater impact on the city than Dr Brad Poulson we could ever have anticipated.” (pictured), Head Focus found that around 1,000 full- of Innovation time equivalent jobs could have been and Systems at created in the city, based on a formula Central College developed by Deloitte and Oxford Economics Nottingham, has published a new which states that for every £54,000 spent in the book – Process Detox: Rehab for local economy one new job is created. Business Processes. Leicester City Council officers calculated that the The book is designed to help reinterment, in isolation, generated an additional companies gain a competitive £4.5m for the city’s economy, and additional figures edge by examining the way they provided by the University of Leicester estimated the do business. Brad said: “Although value of media coverage obtained was £12m. Process Detox was written to inform professionals responsible for designing change and business processes, especially IT systems, I hope that anyone involved or Waste firm proves a interested in organisational Dynamic investment change and becoming more effective may find it useful.” A waste reprocessing firm launched with a £240,000 loan Conkers’ visitor milestone from funding and advisory organisation First Business Conkers, the award-winning visitor attraction at the heart of Enterprise Agency and now worth The National Forest, welcomed its £9.2m has been backed to triple three millionth visitor during the the size of its operation. May half-term holiday. Bio Dynamic UK has been The Robbs family from approved by Nottingham City Birmingham were rewarded with Council to ramp up its waste-to annual family membership. Collabro will perform at the Air Ambulance event at Southwell Racecourse energy operation from 50,000 to Chris Sturdy, Regional 150,000 tonnes a year. Operations Manager at Conkers, Maxwell Bagnall, director at Bio said: “This milestone shows the Collabro to headline Dynamic UK, said: “We are really enduring appeal of Conkers with grateful to First Enterprise for all its fantastic mix of indoor and their support. They were the first outdoor activities.” charity’s fun day organisation to believe in us and New shed for RSPCA give us the backing we needed to Britain’s Got Talent winners Collabro will perform live after a family fun open the door to other funding Marketing agency Brighter day at Southwell Racecourse on 12 July. opportunities to help us start the Directions is supporting the The group, which went straight to number one with their debut single business.” RSPCA in Chesterfield and ‘Stars’, recently appeared on TV during the VE Day celebrations in London Serving the entire East Midlands, Derbyshire as one of its first and released their second album ‘Act Two’ in June. First Enterprise is a not-for-profit official Wish Granters by organisation providing loans and sponsoring a much-needed shed The day is in partnership with, and in aid of, the Lincolnshire and for the Animal Centre. Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, and a percentage of ticket sales will go to free business advice to start-ups MD Claire Curzon said: “We the charity. There will also be a special ‘Air Ambulance Package’ available, and existing businesses from all see time and time again the covering admission, plus a goody bag full of Air Ambulance merchandise backgrounds and sectors. wonderful and needed services and a return admission ticket for the price of only £21. Bio Dynamic’s reprocessing plant the team and volunteers at the Sally Crawford, Deputy CEO of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air is now the second-biggest of its type RSPCA do, so this donation is the Ambulance, said: “This day is all about celebrating our 21st year and I hope in the country, but Maxwell said with very least we can do.” the event will attract people from both counties. They can bring picnics to its expansion plans the business enjoy the group’s take on a wide range of music.” valuation is expected to rocket.

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MEMBER NEWS

Intu staff join pupils in the classroom Staff from Nottingham’s intu Broadmarsh and intu Victoria Centre took a break from their working week to go back to the classroom. The four staff joined 40 pupils from the Nottingham Academy to take part in a range of ice-breaking sessions before heading out on an Outward Bound Trust residential programme together in Wales last month. This was the third consecutive year that intu had sponsored the Outward Bound course for pupils at the academy, asking staff members to get involved by becoming mentors to support pupils during Brothers Tony Smith (left) and their outdoor learning experience. Roger Smith bring down the curtain Two staff from each centre on almost 90 years' service at JCB joined the 12- and 13-year-old pupils as mentors for the Outward Bound programme, which included challenging outdoor activities such as mountain expeditions, walking JCB is a family affair for and camping in the wilderness. Amy Dibble, Marketing Communications Manager, said: long-serving brothers “We are really pleased to have been able to partner up with the Outward Bound Trust and the Nottingham A family which has clocked up ‘Together, the family Dave’s son, Julian, has completed 20 Academy again this year; it is a more than 200 years’ service with has notched up 213 years with the firm and Mick’s son hugely important community JCB has seen two of its long- Carl has worked on the backhoe project to us and something that serving stalwarts bid a fond years employment loader production line for nine years. our staff really enjoy. farewell to the company. with JCB’ Together, the family has notched “Visiting the academy was a Roger Smith, 62, and his brother up 213 years employment with JCB. really important part of the Tony, 65, both retired in May after 47 and 42 years’ Roger, of Denstone, who started work in April 1968, experience, as mentors were given service respectively. said: “JCB has been very good for my family. I the opportunity to get to know the Both followed their father, Eric, into the company. He remember fondly the pioneering spirit of the early days pupils they would be joined in 1959 and worked for JCB for 29 years, firstly when Mr JCB [JCB founder Joseph Cyril Bamford] was accompanying to Aberdovey.” as a labourer and later as a security officer. an ever-present figure. The retiring pair’s older brother, Dave, was a “But it’s equally amazing to see the company now toolroom manager at the firm. He retired five years ago has a real global presence.” after 46 years’ service. Tony, who lives at Sudbury, and who worked for But the family’s ties to JCB continue as younger much of his career as a welder, started at JCB in brother Mick, who has 20 years with the company, December 1972. He said: “I’ll really miss the place and continues to be employed as a fabrication manager. definitely my colleagues.” Students show off auto skills

Students and apprentices at Derby College have started an innovative project with engineering company Futaba Industrial UK to Online care tracking showcase the company’s expertise in making automotive parts. service launched Based at the Roundhouse, Pride Park, the youngsters will ‘strip back’ a Toyota Auris car which will then be exhibited at Futuba’s Pure Homecare has developed an factory in Foston to show the parts that were made there. online service to enable people to Futaba is the world’s third-largest manufacturer of exhausts. In the track the care provided to sick and UK, it specialises in sequential production and delivery – vulnerable family and friends. manufacturing key parts for Toyota, ordered ‘just in time’ through The service was developed in state-of-the-art electronic communications and delivered to the response to pressures facing people factory in synchronisation with its vehicle build. responsible for the care of a loved Futaba Industrial UK Production Engineering Assistant Manager Rob one but who also have to work. Wright said: “Being able to hand over this project to the students at Lola Ojomo, Director at Leicster- Derby College has been a great help in a busy workplace. This project based Pure Homecare, said: “Our will also mark the start of a programme of visits with the college which portal reinforces our central values will enable us to play our part in training the engineers of the future.” Futaba Industrial UK Production of transparency as well as Derby College Engineering Team Manager Will Overton added: Engineering Assistant Manager reassuring clients that while they “Projects such as this are mutually beneficial to the college and local Rob Wright (right) hands over the are busy in their day-to-day life or companies. They give our students valuable work experience and an Toyota Auris to Derby College far away from their loved one, they insight into the skills and attitudes required by employers.” Team Manager Will Overton can have peace of mind about their care.”

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MEMBER NEWS Broadband service puts auto firm in the fast lane

A German vehicle specialist in Derby has learned the true meaning of Volkswagen Audi Group’s tagline Lumici launches ‘vorsprung durch technik’ – advancement through technology. unique app builder It had suffered unusably slow Derby-based Educational internet speeds at its Osmaston Technologies provider Lumici has Park Industrial Estate premises and launched a new platform, Lumici found its access to the information App Builder. superhighway fraught with crashes The platform allows users to and delays. create a multi-functional app with With a need for state-of-the-art ease using the simple drag-and- software programmes and drop interface. electronic servicing updates via the Atif Mahmood, Founder and CEO worldwide web for the prestige of Lumici, said: “Building your own vehicles it worked on, the 2mb/s top app shouldn’t take a year and cost speed of German Automotive’s thousands, not when budgets are previous internet connection was so tight and competition is so high. simply not good enough. “The Lumici App Builder is a quick and easy way to have a useful, ‘We have had the interactive company app without service for a few paying large sums of money.” weeks and the speed The App Builder offers is 40mb/s and it has ecommerce, quizzes, push notifications, events calendars and not fallen over once’ booking, contact forms and more. Apps can be created in minutes “We have built this business up using pre-set templates, or can be over the past eight years from created completely from scratch. repairing two cars a week to 20 Lumici, which can also design vehicles a day but were struggling Ian Essex of German and build bespoke apps, is based in with the poor broadband service Automotive with Matthew Trueman of WarwickNet Derby’s newest office space, which was regularly crashing and Riverside Chambers. required rebooting every few days,” said Service Manager Ian Essex. “We spoke to BT about improving the service but it told us it for our business and I cannot speak more highly of the would cost more than £700 a month for a leased line.” service that we have received.” Display screens Frustrated, curiosity got the better of the firm when Matthew Trueman, Business Development Manager to aid Garrandale it spotted fellow Chamber member Warwicknet for WarwickNet, in Derby, said: “This is a common issue installing cabinets on the estate. for companies who not only suffer from poor Hardy Digital has supplied Ian added: “When WarwickNet started putting in broadband service but also poor information and Garrandale with three cabinets opposite our offices, they told us it would be communication. They simply do not know where to dynamic digital display £60 a month to connect to their service. I thought it turn for a cost-effective solution to what is an everyday screens - also called digital was too good to be true at first. However, we have had problem. The Government is supporting the roll-out of display posters. the service for a few weeks and the speed is 40mb/s superfast broadband and the local authorities are also The screens will help and it has not fallen over once. It is absolutely brilliant behind it through their Connection Voucher Scheme.” Garrandale, of Derby, to showcase its new branding and to communicate interactively with customers at Student designs power-free amp various trade and industry exhibitions. An acoustic amplifier that requires no electrical input has been developed “We like the fact that digital by a product design student from Nottingham Trent University. posters are portable and easy Direct was developed by Adam Russell (pictured) as part of his final to use and it makes our project for this year’s Nottingham Trent University Degree Show week. communication interactive at The product improves and amplifies the sound emitted by handheld the shows,” said Andrew devices, improving the user-experience when listening to music or watching Millington, Garrandale’s videos. Financial Director. Aimed at an ever-diversifying technological industry, the product is Tom Hardy, of Hardy Signs, unique in its acoustic amplification through the material, not electric power. said: “We are constantly Manufactured through 3D printing, Direct follows the traditional looking at new and innovative ‘gramophone trumpet’ shape, a design proven to provide the best ways to serve customers and acoustic sound. these digital posters are one The model is adaptable to various makes of smartphone and of the display solutions we MP3 players, allowing it to be utilised by a wide variety of users. offer. If you have something to Adam said: “It’s been great to see Direct develop over the past share with your customers, we few months. The key focus was to help improve the user- have a range of display experience with handheld devices while maintaining solutions to make it happen.” functionality. By not using a power source, the product is unique in its approach to sound amplification.”

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MEMBER NEWS

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MEMBER NEWS

Foxes’ cup-winning star to lead charity golf day

Former Leicester City all-rounder Matthew Tucker of Morgan Tucker Matt Elliott will be the star turn at a corporate golf day for the Belvoir Consultants back ten Castle Cricket & Countryside Trust. charities in tenth year Elliott, who captained the Foxes to their League Cup victory in 2000, Consulting engineering firm scoring both goals, is inviting teams Morgan Tucker has confirmed its to join him on the tee at Radcliffe- nominated charities for 2015. on-Trent Golf Club, Nottingham, on Celebrating ten years in business Wednesday 10 September. this year, Morgan Tucker has He will later take part in a fun pledged to support ten charities Q&A at a fundraising dinner with nominated by staff. Trust director and ex-Notts cricketer It hopes to raise about £10,000 Darren Bicknell. by undertaking various activities Elliott was also BBC Radio and through donations. Leicester’s match analyst on the Staff at the firm, which is Foxes’ return to the Premiership. headquartered in Newark, have Teams of four are invited to already raised around £3,500. register now and extra places are Above: Ex-Notts cricketer Darren Managing Director Matthew available for the dinner only at £25 Bicknell coaching at a Cricket and Tucker is delighted to support his per head. Countryside Education Day on the staff’s chosen charities in such a The format will be stableford with Belvoir Castle Estate. Right: Matt Elliott significant year for the firm. prizes for the first three teams, “We’ve always done our bit to nearest the pin and longest drive support local and national causes and a super raffle. To book your place or for further close to the firm, but this year we The Trust, a registered charity, information and sponsorship wanted to open it up to everyone delivers cricket coaching and opportunities call 07825 992406 to make suggestions and we countryside education to more than or email selected ten which meant a lot to 2,500 children every year. [email protected] our staff.”

L-R: Rhoda Cooper, Mercy McDonald, Jo McBride, Jessica Rigg (front) and Trevor Shaw, Chris O’Neill, Philip Murray (rear) GT Wolf runners’ charity cash dash

Eleven staff from the Leicester office of business and financial advisers Grant Thornton took on the gruelling Wolf Run challenge to raise money for a local charity. The firm’s Jo McBride, Trevor Shaw, Kari Mellon, Claire Wright, Mercy McDonald, Philip Murray, Jessica Rigg, Chris McKain, Phil Sayers, Rhoda Cooper and Chris O'Neill competed in the event at Stamford Hall on 13 June. The challenging 10k run and obstacle course combines off-road running, mud runs, trail runs and obstacles, both natural and man-made, and is designed to test mental and physical strength, skill and stamina. Jo McBride, Grant Thornton’s Office Manager in Leicester, who led the team’s fundraising efforts, said they were hoping to raise £2,000 for Women’s Aid Leicestershire.

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MEMBER NEWS

Feedback system for rented sector Landlords and tenants in Newark can take part in a revolutionary rental feedback scheme intended to raise standards in the private rented sector. Known as Consider-rate, the scheme offers a unique two- way feedback system helping tenants and lettings agents make sound judgments based on specific questions. Claire Griffiths HR and Admin Director at DE22 Creative (left) with other award winners from the evening The collated information will fill gaps currently found through standard referencing. DE22 earns green award Tenants, letting agents and landlords can build up their own online digital CV, allowing Derby-based DE22 Creative Design ‘This is not a moral DE22 Creative HR and all parties to demonstrate they Solutions has become the first Administration Director Claire are responsible and reliable. creative industries business in the crusade – it actually Griffiths said: “We are delighted Newark-based Buttercross East Midlands to win the Investors makes perfect that we are the first creative Estates, on Middle Gate, has in the Environment (IiE) Award. business sense as industries business in the East become the first in the area to DE22 Creative, which has offices Midlands to achieve this adopt the innovative rental on Friar Gate, has achieved an IiE reducing consumption accreditation. feedback system. Bronze in the nationwide and improving “This is not a moral crusade – it Buttercross sees the scheme environmental accreditation business practices actually makes perfect business as the alternative to licensing initiative. saves money’ sense as reducing consumption and as it encourages The programme is designed to improving business practices saves improvements within the help businesses save money and money and provides a more cost- sector but with the extra the environment by improving their nationwide register of Investors in effective service. We are benefit that it provides real energy efficiency and reducing the Environment businesses and continually supporting and advising value to both landlords and their environmental impact. their progress will be monitored our clients about how to reduce tenants. DE22 Creative will now join a every year. unnecessary print runs.”

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APPOINTMENTS

Louren Bartley takes on new role Nottingham marketing professional Louren Bartley has joined the city’s accountancy firm EBS in the new role of Marketing and PR Assistant. Reporting directly to EBS’ founder and MD Jill Evenden, Andrew McDaid and Tony Hornsby Louren has joined the firm to support the development of its Two new partners marketing, PR communications, for Mitchells social media and business development strategy, as the firm Chesterfield-based independent experiences sustained growth, new Maria Brown and Ben Hibberd Sweet chartered accountants and clients and instructions. business advisers, Mitchells, has EBS, based on strengthened its senior Nottingham’s Youngsters have found management team with the Barker Gate, appointment of two Partners. provides a Andrew McDaid and Tony dedicated a Purpose-ful career Hornsby, who were both previously accountancy Senior Associates with the firm, service to SMEs Following another successful year, further employment opportunities now join Managing Partners Richard and owner- have been created at Purpose Media to help two local young people start Trueman and Tim Leeman in leading managed businesses their careers. the strategic direction of Mitchells. and celebrated its 21st anniversary Maria Brown and Ben Hibberd-Sweet have started at the ecommerce Founded nearly 150 years ago, last year. website and online marketing specialist. Maria will be an Account Manager the appointment of Andrew and Louren joins EBS after four years in the client support team and Ben will start as a Junior Website Developer. Tony secures the long-term future at Dollar Financial, based at The new roles were created in response to the growing demand from of Mitchells, an expert SME Nottingham’s Castle Marina where manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers. business adviser across the region. she played a pivotal role in the Maria, 23, who lives in Derby, graduated in 2014 with a BA (Hons) first in Managing Partner Richard company’s consumer and business- Media Production from the University of Derby. Her course modules included Trueman said: “Tony and Andrew focused marketing campaigns. She television production, radio production and web design and development. are instrumental in our plans for also managed Dollar Financial’s Ben, 19, lives in Sutton-in-Ashfield and has GCSEs in English and Maths. the future and I am delighted that social media campaigns and several Since leaving school he has gained a range of qualifications including level they are joining us.” design projects. 3 apprenticeship in web development and telecom professionals.

Melanie appointed Associate Dean Melanie Currie has been appointed Associate Dean of Nottingham Business School at Nottingham Trent University. She has been tasked with developing the school’s international reputation Lauren Wright and Louise Henshaw, and carving a Pellacraft’s new administrators strong niche for personalised Sales push creates learning with L-R: Debbie Pegg, Victoria Carson-Smyth and Aimie Loveday two new positions real-world experience Family-owned business gifts and embedded at all promotional merchandise supplier levels of study. Consultancy recruits Pellacraft has appointed two new Melanie was previously Head of sales administrators following yet Undergraduate Programmes at NBS four for the future another successful year. and has a particular interest in Lauren Wright, 21, from Sutton- innovative curriculum design and A Leicestershire-based engineering consultancy has strengthened its in-Ashfield, and Louise Henshaw, 23, enriching the student experience. team with the appointment of four new construction professionals. from Leabrooks, Derbyshire, have Professor Baback Yazdani, Dean Joining the team at M-EC Consulting Development joined the 30-year-old business to of Nottingham Business School, Engineers are Senior Driller and Site Technician help manage key accounts. The duo said: “Melanie brings a great track Carlo Camposano (pictured right), Technical will provide quotes, place sales and record of innovation and Secretary Victoria Carson-Smyth, Lighting Engineer purchase orders with suppliers and achievements in business and Aimie Loveday and Civil Engineering Technician, generally liaise with customers on a management education and will Debbie Pegg. day-to-day basis. help us accelerate our experiential Victoria, Aimie and Debbie will work in M-EC’s Prior to joining Pellacraft, Lauren learning and personalisation construction design division under Associate studied at Ashfield Comprehensive agenda in this pivotal role.” Infrastructure Engineer Craig Perks. School and West Nottinghamshire Melanie added: “This is a Carlo will set up a new site technical services College where she gained eight A- fantastic opportunity to work with division under the guidance of Associate Geo- C GCSEs and A-levels in English and support the great talent at Environmental Engineer Kevin Bullock. language, sociology and media. Nottingham Business School during “All four recruits have made a really Lauren initially qualified as a what is a very exciting time for the positive impact,” said M-EC’s Managing hairdresser but wanted a change in University and the School. I look Director, Eddie Mewies. career and to become more forward to supporting the staff and involved in sales. school in realising our ambitions.”

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APPOINTMENTS

IN BRIEF City business club’s New Partner promotion Nottingham solicitor Sharp Young new President & Pearce has promoted Rebecca Emeleus to Partner. Nic Elliott, a Director of Nottingham law firm, Actons, has been Rebecca joined the elected as the new President of the Nottingham City firm in 2011 and has experience of Business Club (NCBC). helping and He takes over from Jonathan English, Ian Borley and Marc Abrams advising clients in Managing Director of video production Marc moves up to all types of company Skeleton Productions, who has personal injury and been the club’s President for the past Partner at KPMG civil cases including year. catastrophic injury cases. Marc Abrams, previously a Director Nic is an employment lawyer and heads Rebecca’s promotion brings the within the tax function in the East up Actons’ employee investigations team. number of partners at the firm to He said: “I am really pleased to have Midlands, has been promoted to ten and comes at a time when the been elected as President of NCBC. Partner at KPMG. firm is experiencing considerable I’ve been involved in the club for Marc has played a leading role in growth in all services offered. some time, most recently as KPMG’s business development Vice President, and look programme within the East Adrian joins the Board forward to leading it over the Midlands while, at the same time, Senior Consultant Adrian Baker has next 12 months. leading the local tax team. been appointed to the Board of “I want to build on the Marc will be a Partner in KPMG’s Directors at Coachworks- great work Jonathan has put Enterprise practice and, as such, Consulting in recognition of his into developing the club and will be helping local businesses contribution to the business over grow the membership to address a wide range of challenges the past five years. ensure it reflects the strength and assisting them to achieve their Adrian had a successful career in of business in the city.” objectives. banking for 13 years before James Simmonds, Partner KPMG’s Senior Partner for the switching to the motor industry in at accountants, UHY Hacker East Midlands, Ian Borley said: “I the mid-90s, since which he has represented brands such as Audi Young LLP, was elected Vice- am delighted to welcome Marc to and Toyota as a retailer. President and Alison Rayner, of KPMG’s East Midlands Partnership. As an experienced leader having “His many years of experience of Initial Design, was re-elected achieved success in two very Club Secretary. advising clients here makes him a different but demanding sectors, great addition to our senior team.” the decision to apply his experience in the consulting arena led him to join Coachworks. Nada joins Hallam Internet Nottingham-based Hallam Internet has appointed PR consultant Nada Giuffrida. With over 20 years’ experience, Nada has worked for small, medium and large organisations Jonathan Gilbert and Lorna Trueman and run her own PR communications business. Two new Partners Announcing her appointment, Managing Director Susan Hallam for Flint Bishop said: “We are thrilled to welcome Law firm Flint Bishop has made Nada to our team.” two promotions just two weeks after a major recruitment drive Four more for Wilsons was announced. Nottingham-based insurance and Lorna Trueman, who joined the L-R: Toby Preston, Catherine North, Andy Hitchon, Tim Gladdle, Linda Jerman, financial solutions firm The Wilson firm in 2010, has been promoted to Robin Johnston and Amanda Sutcliffe. Organisation has made four senior Commercial Litigation Partner. She appointments in its General has over ten years of litigation Insurance Division. experience and acts for large multi- Solicitors announce Neil Tennant and John Procter national companies dealing with both join as Account Directors, high value and complex claims. Fiona Mitchell as Major Client Broker and Susan Blackley as Major The second promotion is a raft of promotions and Commercial Insurance Defendant Insurance Partner, Tim Gladdle, Senior Partner at Bray & Bray Solicitors, has announced six Manager. Jonathan Gilbert, who has been The new appointments mark a internal promotions across the firm’s East Midlands’ offices. with the firm for over 23 years. significant first step in the strategy They took effect last month. Both Lorna and Jon report to ‘build and grow the General directly to Qamer Ghafoor, In recognition of both exceptional talent and hard work, Toby Preston Insurance team’ set-out by Mark Managing Partner of Commercial (Corporate and Commercial) and Amanda Sutcliffe (Residential Property) Minton when he joined Wilsons in Services and Head of Litigation. were appointed Partners. the new role of Managing Director Qamer said: “In the past few Robin Johnston (Corporate and Restructuring), Catherine North of its General Insurance Division in years, the firm has seen a strong (Commercial Property), Linda Jerman (Business Defence) and Andy December last year. growth in many practice areas. The Hitchon (Wills, Trusts and Tax) have been appointed Associates. promotion of Lorna and Jon builds Tim said: “I am delighted by these promotions. At Bray & Bray we have on that success and is in developed an outstanding team made up of strong individuals who work recognition of their first class hard to achieve the best possible results for clients.” For more appointments visit technical expertise, client service Bray & Bray Solicitors has offices in Leicester, Market Harborough and http://bit.ly/1GIfDnQ and leadership qualities.” Hinckley.

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DEALS & MERGERS

IN BRIEF Engineering firm puts Mark in the driving seat

International engineering firm Nylacast has joined precision. Racing drivers have to perform in challenging forces with race car driver Mark Draghicescu for the conditions and our products also have to stand up to latest season of HSCC Historic Formula Ford testing environments in some of the toughest industries Championship. in the world." Brampton sponsors Originally from the US, Mark moved to England when Mark added: “I started racing go-karts at the age of Proact lounge he was 18 to pursue his motorsport dream. 13 and the feeling of winning is like no other. Competing under the banner MD Racing, he is “It is great to have Nylacast's backing, and as an Brampton Brewery has signed a driving Speedsport’s 1971 Merlyn MK20 this season in engineering graduate, I am very interested in the long-term deal to sponsor the the historic FF1600 series for single-seater cars built research and development behind their products in 1866 Club Lounge at Chesterfield FC’s Proact Stadium. and raced before 1972, the glory years of Formula Ford. motorsport and beyond. It's The agreement will result in He attracted the support of Nylacast because also great that they have a the lounge being named the automotive is a key sector for the company, which has strong connection with 'Brampton Brewery 1866 Lounge' two bases in the US as well as a major manufacturing my home country.” and a special '1866 Best Bitter' operation in Leicester and offices in South Africa. being brewed. Nylacast Marketing Manager Junaid Makda said: The Club’s Head of "Success in car racing requires many of the qualities Commercial and Marketing, Kevin that our customers value in our products, such as Fitzgerald, said: "Not only is the strength, reliability and deal worth a substantial amount of money to the football club over a long period of time, it is with a local company which produces some very popular beers that have been available on the concourses."

University gets £9m from Sunwah Foundation De Montfort University, Leicester, has marked ten years of successful association with the Sunwah Foundation with the announcement of a formal partnership agreement set to create opportunities for thousands Mark Draghicescu and his car at Nylacast 1 of students around the world. Two new centres, named after Sunwah chairman Dr Jonathan KS Choi, are set to open on DMU’s Leicester campus in 2016. In IT connects with business advice addition, a DMU London base will be created in Docklands. Retail IT solutions company Retail Dr Choi, through his Sunwah Assist, which has its head office in Foundation, will contribute a sum Nottingham, has appointed the East of £9m to DMU over the course of Midlands office of business and the next five years to fund the Dr financial advisers Grant Thornton as Jonathan KS Choi Business School its business adviser. – the single biggest endowment Retail Assist provides specialist ever made to the university. IT support to leading retailers and MBO secures firm’s future hospitality operators in the UK and internationally. Plumbing, heating and property It has appointed Grant Thornton services company, T&S Heating, to provide a comprehensive has undergone a management business and financial support buyout with support from First service spanning audit, tax, Enterprise Business Agency. The deal was led by T&S business and financial advice. Heating’s Finance Director Saeed The firm’s East Midlands’ team Rafique and Managing Director working with Retail Assist Robert Bluff after the previous comprises Tom Copson, Associate owner retired from the business. Director leading the Audit team, L-R: Tom Copson (Associate Director Grant Thornton), Alan Morris (Executive Operating from its Arnold HQ, Kari Mellon, Senior Manager leading Chairman Retail Assist), Matthew Proudlove (Chief Finance Officer, Retail the company employs more than Private Client services, Mike Burt Assist), Kari Mellon (Senior Manager, Tax, Grant Thornton). 80 members of staff and provides who will head its dedicated heating, bathroom and building Corporate Tax team, and Andy growing businesses of our size, of technology solutions to the retail services across the East Midlands. Morgan, a specialist in Technology, which aligns strongly with our own sector. The company is fast Saeed said: “We needed Media and Telecommunications and plans for business growth. growing and investing in research additional funding and I had Advisory Partner at Grant Thornton. previous experience of working “We look forward to advancing and development into the latest with First Enterprise so they were Alan Morris, Executive Chairman our growth strategy as we solutions for its customers and we my first port of call to speak to at Retail Assist, said: “We were experience a good relationship.” are delighted Retail Assist has about financial support.” impressed by the commitment Tom Copson said: “Retail Assist selected Grant Thornton to help it Grant Thornton demonstrates to is at the forefront of the provision achieve its ambitions.”

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PATRONS

IN BRIEF College Court to expand University of Leicester conference centre and hotel, College Court, is expanding its facilities. Due to an extremely high Paramedics will trial the new rapid response treatment for stroke patients volume of enquiries College Court, which opened in October 2013, is already increasing its capacities to include another Boost for stroke patients conference room to hold 100 delegates. Its existing Willow and Paramedics from seven ambulance ‘The earlier a patient the type of stroke suffered. Sycamore suites will undergo services across the UK are to be Leading the new study, Professor renovation in August, recruited to help trial a new ‘rapid was given glyceryl Philip Bath, said: “This trial is a transforming the two training response’ treatment for stroke trinitrate, the better logical extension of our previous rooms into one large meeting patients. their chances of a full studies which suggested that the room to hold up to 100 delegates Researchers at the University of earlier a patient was given glyceryl in a theatre-style set up. Nottingham have been awarded recovery from stroke’ trinitrate, the better their chances of funding from the British Heart a full recovery from stroke. 90 years of Caterpillar Foundation to carry out a clinical trial to use medicated “We are very grateful for the cooperation of UK Chamber patron Caterpillar turns skin patches to lower blood pressure quickly after a Ambulance Services, including the East Midlands 90 this year. suspected stroke, before the patient gets to hospital. Ambulance Service (EMAS) which is coordinating the The company said: The study follows a large international trial called ambulance part of the trial, where paramedics will lead “Caterpillar’s 90th anniversary is ENOS (Efficacy of Nitric Oxide in Stroke), led from on identifying patients who are suspected of having a a time to celebrate – a time to Nottingham, which indicated that early treatment with stroke. reflect on the past and look skin patches containing blood pressure-lowering “More than 30 hospitals, including Nottingham toward the future. “To celebrate this milestone, glyceryl trinitrate (also known as nitroglycerine) had a University Hospitals’ Trust, will care for the patients we’ll highlight Caterpillar's beneficial effect on a patient’s recovery, depending on once they arrive and help with follow up.” innovations and people from 1925 to 2015. In a campaign titled ‘90 Reasons for 90 Years’, we’ll showcase 90 artefacts that Double award for design student represent reasons why – against the odds – Caterpillar has been in Knitwear design student Ella business for 90 years.” Nisbett scooped two awards at Graduate Fashion Week. Driver of the Year The 25-year-old, who studies at Samworth Brothers driver Allan Nottingham Trent University’s Marsh is the first ever Microlise School of Art & Design, won the Driver of the Year. Stuart Peters Visionary Knitwear He beat 90,000 other drivers Award and the Menswear Award. in the UK to scoop the accolade Her designs – which are the and was also named best driver outcome of her dissertation on in the long distance category. men’s fashion and subcultures – Anonymous data recorded were inspired by the 1940s Zoot through Microlise technology and Suiters and the Sapeurs in the analysed by the University of Nottingham helped create an Congo, both male sub-cultural initial shortlist of 15 drivers, five groups which show attitude and Some of the clothes created by knitwear design student Ella Nisbett in each of the three categories – aspiration through clothing. short, medium and long distance. Ian McInnes, Course Leader for These two prestigious awards are Ella said: “To have been Allan said: “Drivers don’t often recognised in such a way by such Fashion Knitwear at Nottingham testimony to her quiet determination, get recognition so it is good that highly respected industry Trent University, said: “Staff and design talent and manufacturing this award is raising awareness of professionals is an absolute honour. fellow students are delighted with expertise. She is an excellent the importance of good driver It is a night I will remember the news of Ella’s double win at this ambassador for the fashion knitwear skills.” forever.” year's Graduate Fashion Week event. and knitted textiles course.”

THE CHAMBER IS HONOURED BY THE SUPPORT OF ITS PATRONS

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CHAMBER NEWS

John Longworth of the BCC

Productivity must Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey has revealed that the cost of online security breaches is rising rapidly not be allowed to fall The Chamber has warned that Cyber security must be forecasts of a downturn in productivity must not be allowed to become a self-fulfilling prophecy. The comment followed an top priority for business announcement from the British Chambers of Commerce that it was downgrading its UK GDP forecast The Chamber is urging businesses to take steps to medium-sized businesses reported the same. And while for 2015 from 2.7% to 2.3% protect themselves online after a new report revealed attacks from outsiders have become a greater threat for following a weaker than expected that cyber security breaches could leave even small all firms, 75% of large businesses and 30% of small start to the year. firms in the East Midlands with bills running to tens of business have suffered staff-related security breaches. It said, however, that it believed thousands of pounds. However, the survey also found that more firms have the slowdown would be temporary The 2015 Information Security Breaches Report, taken action to tackle the cyber threat, with a third of and the prospects over the medium unveiled by Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey organisations now using the Government’s ‘Ten Steps term remained steady. towards the end of June, showed that the average cost to Cyber Security’ guidance, up from a quarter in 2014. John Longworth, Director of the most severe online security breaches for big And nearly half (49%) of all organisations have General of the British Chambers of businesses (500+ employees) now starts at £1.46m (up achieved a ‘Cyber Essentials’ badge – a Government Commerce, said: “It is always from £600,000 in 2014). accreditation indicating they have taken steps to disappointing when we have to protect themselves against common internet threats, or downgrade our growth forecast but ‘90% of large organisations plan to get one in the next year. the unexpectedly low figures from reported they had suffered an Andy Watterson, Business Crime Manager at the the ONS on Q1 2015 make it information security breach in the Chamber, said: “Cyber crime is a huge – and rapidly unavoidable. growing – threat to businesses of all sizes, which makes increasing awareness of cyber security and its importance “While this slowdown will serve past year’ to local businesses an urgent Chamber priority. as a warning about the strength of The cost to SMEs was between £75,000 and “I would urge businesses of all sizes to make use of the our economic recovery, we believe £311,000 (up from £65,000 and £115,000). help and guidance available from Government and take the UK will secure steady growth in The findings were based on a survey carried out by up the Cyber Essentials Scheme. While staying secure the years to come.” PwC for the Government’s Department for Business, online should be a key consideration for all businesses, Chris Hobson, Director of Policy Innovation and Skills. It found that 90% of large becoming Cyber Essentials accredited will also open up and External Affairs for East organisations reported they had suffered an information opportunities for firms which want to bid for certain Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, security breach in the past year, while 74% of small and public contracts and need the certification to proceed.” Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) said it was important that the figures were considered in context and did not become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Calling for clarity over cuts “Business confidence remains high, particularly across the East Chancellor George Osborne last take on the challenge of helping Midlands, despite the slight month announced an additional to achieve the Chancellor’s vision national downturn reported by the £3bn of Government spending of making the Midlands the UK’s BCC,” he said. cuts for this year. ‘Engine for Growth’. “The pre-election doubt has They include £450m from the “With this in mind, the gone but there is still uncertainty Department for Business, Government should, without over the UK's ties to Europe. Innovation and Skills (BIS) and delay, provide additional clarity on Business does not like uncertainty. £545m from the Department for exactly where the axe will fall, It is imperative the Government Transport (DfT). particularly in relation to the does everything it can to give He also announced plans to sell ‘The Government planned cuts to the BIS and DfT business absolute confidence to the Government's remaining 30% budgets, in order to minimise continue to drive growth, create stake in the Royal Mail, expected should provide uncertainty and create the jobs and pursue new clients to raise an extra £1.5bn to help additional clarity on stability businesses need to thrive. overseas to ensure a positive decrease the nation's debts. exactly where the “Business wants a plan for fiscal balance of trade. Chris Hobson, the Chamber's consolidation which is carefully “Business doesn't want to hear Director of Policy and External axe will fall’ balanced with the overriding need that the economy is slowing down, Affairs, said: “Many businesses to nurture investment, job creation it creates doubt and uncertainty, it were expecting a further round of required to fund the public and growth. Investing in stalls investment and the warning cuts to public expenditure in the services the UK wants and needs. increasing productivity and becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. wake of an election which “Over the past five years, business growth, coupled with What is important in this returned a Conservative majority. businesses, particularly here in the preventative measures to control information from the BCC is that it “This will put even more East Midlands, have done much of costs while interest rates are believes the slowdown to be pressure on the private sector to the heavy lifting to get the historically low, is likely to reduce temporary and that growth is expand and create the jobs, economy back on its feet. They the structural deficit faster than expected to remain steady over the wealth and, in turn, tax revenues stand ready to do so again and slashing spending too deeply.” medium term.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

Rail electrification plan is sidelined

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has sidelined plans to electrify the Midland Main Line railway. But he said he wasn’t pulling the plug on the project, and that it will still go ahead, just not with the priority it had previously enjoyed. The news was met with disappointment by the Chamber. Chris Hobson (pictured), Head of Information and Representation, The proposed HS2 rail line could be a major boost for East Midlands businesses said: “The Chamber is extremely disappointed and frustrated that the electrification of the Midlands Main Line will not go ahead as planned. “It is disappointing that the original plans couldn’t be delivered on Toton on track to be time or budget and frustrating that this key project isn’t being given the prioritisation that the success of the region demands. region’s HS2 station

‘The evidence in favour of upgrading this Toton is building up a head of Head of Information and route is compelling’ steam as the preferred venue for Representation, said: “This is a the East Midlands station on the positive development and means “The Transport Secretary, whose constituency HS2 rail line. that with this regional consensus, is in the East Midlands, has said the project is In June, Derby City Council, the Government can press ahead still part of his plans. The Government must which had been driving hard to with confirming both the route for now clarify exactly when it will be delivered. have the station developed on its the Eastern Leg and the timetable “The evidence in favour of upgrading this side of the county boundary if not for its delivery, something which route is compelling. It will significantly reduce in the city itself, gave its backing to the Chamber pressed the Treasury travel times between the East Midlands and building the station on Toton on recently. London, unlocking potential economic benefits of sidings, just outside Nottingham. “HS2 is the single-biggest around £200m for the region. The move is significant as it transformational transport “The Chancellor was in the region only a few weeks demonstrates a regional consensus infrastructure project in generations ago describing it as the UK’s ‘Engine for Growth’. for working together to ensure the and represents a huge opportunity Infrastructure is a driver of that engine and Eastern Leg of the proposed new for businesses in the East Midlands. to have this key project shunted back rail link between Birmingham and It will bring the capacity and into the sidings is a grave concern.” the north goes ahead. connectivity that will help underpin Chris Hobson, the Chamber’s the region’s future success.”

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CHAMBER NEWS SPONSORED BY: NEWTONS ACCOUNTANTS LIMITED Chamber Board member Ian honoured with OBE

Can your Chamber Board member Ian cushioned the pain of the Rams’ Morgan has been awarded an OBE defeat. business for Services to Public Transport “I believe that the fantastic and the Community in the Queen's achievements of everyone at be more Birthday Honours. Trentbarton and Kinchbus is the Ian has spent 42 years in the bus main reason for the honour. It is a industry in a variety of roles and is great team to be part of and I feel profitable? the current Deputy Chairman of very privileged to have contributed Wellglade Group, the UK’s largest to the success of a medium-sized By Chris Newton independently-owned bus operator. bus company from the East FCCA and Chartered Tax Adviser Five local bus companies Midlands, which has led the including the award winning development of the UK bus Trentbarton make up the Group, industry for the past 20 years. Managing a business is a skill which is also partner in the “My family has been developed by practice. There Tramlink Nottingham consortium. exceptionally supportive are no definitive right or Wellglade was formed in 1986 Ian Morgan has been awarded an OBE throughout, particularly Sylvia who wrong answers and when the management team and brought up our sons almost on her businesses with very different employees of Trent Buses bought ‘My reaction was one own in the early days of our management strategies can the business from the Government. of stunned surprise management buyout – she still be similarly successful. Ian is Chairman of the and delight. It certainly jokes that people in the village Before deciding how to get Confederation of Passenger cushioned the pain of thought she was a single mother.” a business to where you want Transport UK, the bus and coach Chamber President Liz Fothergill it to be it is important to industry’s trade association. the Rams’ defeat’ said: “On behalf of the Chamber, I understand where your It is recognised by Government would like to pass on its warmest business is. Regular as the voice of the industry and Group and Vice-President of Burton congratulations to Ian on being management accounts are represents over 1,000 companies Hockey Club. awarded this prestigious honour. useful in this respect but are from the largest PLCs to the He lives in Stretton, near Burton “Ian has made a massive positive useless if they are inaccurate smallest family businesses. upon Trent, and has been married contribution to the local business or delivered late. He is also a long-standing to Sylvia for 32 years. They have community, both through his work Management information Chamber Board Director and served two sons Joe, 29, and Tom, 28. in developing excellent local allows for informed decisions as President of the former He said: “I’m chuffed to bits. The transport links at Wellglade through Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire to his tireless dedication and on areas such as sales news arrived by letter just minutes Chamber of Commerce in 2010/2011. before I left home to watch Derby commitment to the local business volumes, sales prices, gross He currently sits on the board of County’s final disappointing home agenda as a Chamber Board margins and overhead the D2N2 Local Enterprise match of the season and my Director and former President, as expenditure. Otherwise it is Partnership, is Chairman of the East reaction was one of stunned well as a D2N2 Board member. This often too easy to get caught Staffordshire Cricket Development surprise and delight. It certainly honour is thoroughly deserved.” up in the daily operations and receive a surprise from the annual accounts that the business has not been as Leading academic steps down profitable as you had expected. Chamber Board member Professor John Coyne retires A key factor for any as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby at the business is to manage its end of this academic year. cashflow. An understanding of He will continue to serve as a Director of the a company’s cashflows based Chamber. upon management accounts Prof Coyne served as Vice-Chancellor at the will highlight problems with university for 11 years and is a known and respected future growth and expansion figure across East Midlands’ academia. whilst also serving as a target He began his career at Nottingham University, from to strive towards. which he graduated in 1973 with a first class honours Controlling a growing degree in industrial economics. He has held a variety of roles with East Midlands business is difficult but it is universities, including Director of the Centre for made much easier when you Management Buyout Research at Nottingham, Dean of have up to date information at Leicester Business School and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of your disposal. What De Montfort University. information do you use to run He also serves as a Commissioner on the UK Council your business, how useful is it for Employment and Skills. and how timely is it in your Chamber President Liz Fothergill said: “John has hands? made a significant contribution to higher education and to local business by overseeing an outstanding For further information or organisation which helps to equip tomorrow’s business advice, please contact Chris leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to Professor John Coyne Newton on 0115 9609955 or succeed. with Chamber President at [email protected] “His retirement is academia’s loss but I’m delighted Liz Fothergill he is continuing to serve as a director of the Chamber.”

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CHAMBER NEWS Driving exports by degrees

A new degree-level qualification in exporting should be introduced to help British businesses unlock their full potential in the global marketplace, according to a new independent report. The final report from the Cole Commission calls for political leadership from the Prime Minister down to drive a “revolution in export culture”. It recommends that the Government works with higher education providers and leading exporters to develop a qualification Young people need exporting skills – at either undergraduate or postgraduate level – that equips young people with the skills and experience they need to take “British products and services into new markets and complete deals”. The qualification would include skills in language, culture, geo-politics, marketing and export finance and would be backed by a range of UK exporters offering work placements, both at home and abroad. The report also recommends reforming UK Export Finance (UKEF) and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to ensure they “work as one to champion UK exports”, by co-locating both organisations and uniting them under a shared set of key performance indicators aimed at boosting exports. Under the reforms, UKTI would be tasked with targeting and working more closely with major UK exporters while UKEF would place emphasis on simplifying its processes, speeding up its response times and adding more competitive key products needed by exporters. Chris Hobson, Head of Information and Representation at the Chamber, said: “As a country, our trade deficit – the continuing imbalance between the value of the goods and services that we import against those that we export – remains a substantial dampener on our ability to achieve sustainable growth. The Cole Commission is right to call for a radical shake- up that places international trade at the very heart of Government activity. These are the results of an industry-led review, its findings are what business is saying needs to be done. “There are huge opportunities in the global marketplace for local firms working in all areas, from small-scale production through to high-end ‘The qualification services. It’s crucial that businesses thinking of starting to export or those would include looking to grow their international activities can access the support and finance they need to achieve their ambitions. In particular, the creation of a skills in language, dedicated degree-level qualification specifically tailored to exports will not culture, marketing only complement the work the Chamber already does in delivering accredited export training, but will also fulfil its key lobbying priority aimed geo-politics and at fixing the link between education and the world of work.” export finance’ Chamber Summit aimed to close skills gap

Closing the skills gap between Skills Summit – Forging the Link • Centre for Cities – how the US • OCR – identifying maths and education and the workplace has was to identify the challenges tackles improving outcomes for English skills lacking in your been frequently flagged as a key faced by business and to find young people business. concern for employers. practical solutions. School-leavers, including college Presenters and workshops • CITB – construction sector Ian Bates, Forums Manager and and university graduates, have included: support for employers and schools Skills Lead for the Chamber, said: been found to be lacking even the • Ofsted – how educators are “The lack of preparedness of school basic preparedness for the measured to ensure young • Career Codex – the power of leavers for the workplace continues transition from education to people are fit for work and what work experience and employer to be one of the main issues raised employment. The result is a regulation needs to be in place engagement strategies in our quarterly surveys. It has been significant challenge for businesses to ensure it happens a serious concern for some time • Evolve Trust – delivering across the East Midlands, and the but increasingly so in the past year • National Apprenticeship employability skills in schools country, in terms of recruitment to 18 months as businesses look to Service – what will the new and workforce development. increase their workforce. apprenticeship reforms mean for • D2N2 Local Enterprise In a bid to address these issues, employers and learners? Partnership – Employability “In the past year, it has been the Chamber organised an event to Framework and the National recognised as a serious problem bring together businesses and • UK Commission for Employment Careers Service Offer and one which needs to be those who deliver education and and Skills – improving leadership addressed as a matter of urgency, training across the region. and management skills in UK • Regional Universities – support something the Chamber has been The aim of the East Midlands business to support growth for business actively encouraging.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE EVENTS & TRAINING

AUGUST 2015 ITOPs Sales Support Award Date: 14 September Time: 9am-5pm Location: Chesterfield Cost: Members £325+VAT non-members £435+VAT A qualification which demonstrates that candidates have the necessary skills to operate administration procedures for international trade. Missions open Export Documentation (BCC Accredited) Date: 16 September up markets in Time: 9.30am-4.30pm Location: Nottingham Cost: Members £235+VAT non-members India and China ITOPs Summer School - £297+VAT International Trade Operations Gives delegates knowledge of how and Procedures to complete essential export (BCC Accredited) documents and avoid delays in Firms wanting to break into or expand their presence in India and China Dates: 17, 18, 19, 20 August delivery and payment. are being urged to get involved in two trade missions. Time: 9.30am-4.30pm Location: Chesterfield New: Incoterms® 2010 - What's Working jointly with Nottingham City Council, UK Trade & Investment Cost: Members £1,375+VAT the difference? (UKTI), the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and the China-Britain non-members (BCC Accredited) Business Council (CBBC), the Chamber is actively encouraging regional £1,650+VAT Date: 30 September firms to explore the opportunities presented by the two countries. A practical qualification which Time: 9.15am–12.30pm The East Midlands has historically demonstrates that candidates have Location: Leicester strong links with both markets and ‘The East Midlands has the necessary skills to operate Cost: Members £129+VAT the missions will enhance these ties historically strong links administration procedures for non-members £175+VAT by introducing delegates to a range international trade. What each term means and the of industries, organisations and with both markets’ commercial implications of using networks to further their export plans. SEPTEMBER 2015 each. Firms looking for opportunities to off-shore manufacturing or looking for import opportunities could also benefit from being part of the missions. ITOPs - International Trade Import Procedures The India trip is planned to take place over a week beginning Saturday Operations and Procedures (BCC Accredited) 3 October. It will include visits to Chandigarh, Jalandar and Delhi. (BCC Accredited) Date: 22 October UKTI is offering up to £500 towards the cost of the trip for eligible Time: 9.30am-4.30pm Dates: 8, 24 September, companies. Pre-visit preparation will provide delegates with access to Location: Leicester 6, 26 October experts on Indian trade and culture, market research and introductions to Time: 9.30am-4.30pm Cost: Members £235+VAT non-members useful business networks. Location: Chesterfield There will also be various market briefings, a reception at the British High Cost: Members £1,375+VAT £297+VAT Commission, itinerary management and interpreters available. non-members Helps delegates to develop a working After the visit there will be debriefing sessions at which follow-up action £1,650+VAT knowledge of import procedures to A practical qualification which manage costs and reduce delays in plans will be drawn up. demonstrates that candidates have the movement of goods The China trip will take place over eight days from Monday 2 November the necessary skills to operate and will include visits to Shanghai and Ningbo. administration procedures for international trade.

e-z Cert Workshop Date: 10 September Intensive course on Time: 10am-2pm Location: Nottingham export opportunity Cost: Members £25+VAT DATES FOR non-members £35+VAT Firms wanting to learn more about the hows Learn the best way to use e-z Cert YOUR DIARY and whys of exporting should take to apply for Certificates of Origin. Market Visit to France advantage of the Chamber’s summer Update your knowledge on March 2016 regulations which apply to school for ITOPs. completion of Certificates of Origin. Market Visit to Austria Normally held over four days with lengthy breaks between them, the June 2016 Inward/Outward Processing Chamber is holding an intensive course in Relief Market Visit to Poland International Trade Opportunities and (BCC Accredited) September 2016 Procedures (ITOPs) next month. Date: 10 September The ‘classroom’ sessions of ITOPs are Experience the market first Time: 9.30am-4.30pm usually spread between fairly long periods back hand and meet local Location: Nottingham at the office in which delegates can practice what they learned. companies to explore doing Cost: Members £235+VAT But for the first time, this year candidates can take the course on business with. non-members four consecutive days (17-20 August). £297+VAT Further details closer to the “Europe virtually shuts down in August so we thought we’d test the Introduces delegates to the date. To book or to receive water and see if there was a market to offer the four-day ITOPs methods of obtaining relief from more information email course,” said Laura Howard (pictured), the Chamber’s Head of customs duty through operating [email protected]. International Trade. IPR and OPR.

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

BCC showcase event

The British Chambers of Commerce International Trade Conference – Trade the World: Accessing High Growth Markets – will take place on 3 November in London. Now in its fourth year, the conference offers opportunities to showcase the strengths of UK commerce. The day’s agenda will include a blend of practical and inspirational content targeted toward firms aspiring to export or already trading overseas but looking for new markets. Before the BCC event, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) will be staging its sixth Midlands International Trade Expo and Conference (MITEC). The event will have a similar focus to the BCC event but is aimed more at East Midlands organisations. It will be held for the third consecutive year at Chamber patron Derby County's iPro Stadium, on Pride Park. The date has been set as 13 October. The www.m-itec.co.uk website will go live soon to give further information and to allow delegates to book.

UKTI can assist with up to £750 towards the cost of the trip for eligible companies and, as with the India trip, there will be pre-visit preparations and a debriefing afterwards. Tech firms urged to Laura Howard, Head of International Trade for the Chamber, said: “India and China are very strong markets offering huge opportunities for trade for East Midlands companies. insure against risks “While we will be focusing on export opportunities, the trips will also open up avenues for firms looking for overseas manufacturing and High growth technology firms are being warned to check their insurance importing. to make sure they aren’t exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. “We would strongly recommend anyone even thinking about these two Start-up companies in particular could be at risk of infringement to huge markets to take part in the trade missions.” intellectual property rights, according to independent commercial insurance broker Franklands, of Derby. To help firms identify the risks and the steps they should take to prevent becoming a victim, the firm has published an ebook called ‘Protecting Your Aid to German trade Technology Business’ that is dedicated to overcoming the risks faced by growing technology companies. Local firms struggling to cope with The book outlines the challenges technology firms face, such as the language or culture of intellectual property disputes or operating in overseas markets, and ways to Germany or German-speaking minimise the risks associated with them. countries can now get help from High-growth companies have been identified as being most at risk from Chamber member Export PA. inadequate insurance cover because of a lack of understanding about Trading for just over a year, international markets, limits of insurance and professional liabilities. Export PA, of Nottingham, acts as “In recent years we have seen a number of cases where high-growth an intermediary between local technology companies have been operating with insufficient insurance firms and those in countries to cover,” said David Harrison, Director at Franklands. which they aspire to export. Angela Kühn “Business owners start out with a standard office insurance policy then, The company was founded by as their business grows, they forget about insurance and concentrate on owner manager Angela Kühn, who She said: “We provide admin/PA running their business. This often leads to them exposing their business to was born and raised in Germany support, which can be virtual or a great deal of unnecessary risk.” but after school came to England onsite, with the added language Protecting Your Technology Business is available for download from the to work as an au pair. and culture skills. www.franklands.co.uk website. She worked for a family in “We are happy to support a Nottingham and studied English to business from the beginning improve her language skills. throughout their export journey, or For more information on exporting services, After working for several large we can provide support for a trade missions and events visit local firms, including Experian, specific export project or just a www.emc-dnlco.uk/international-trade or Angela launched Export PA to help small task such as interpreting get smart and use this QR code firms trade with her motherland. correspondence.”

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POLITICS

Midlands happy to be UK’s growth engine

Between the Northern Powerhouse and lucrative London and Home Counties lies the UK’s recently dubbed ‘Engine for Growth’. Deputy Editor Andy Hibberd has been finding out from members what the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s new moniker for the Midlands might mean to them

More than 130 regional business leaders gathered at very short notice at Chamber member Garrandale’s Derby factory at the beginning of June after being told that the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne was going to be making an announcement there. In fact, he made two that would directly affect the region. He said the Midlands would be the home of a new £60m Energy Research Accelerator, which would build on the expertise of six Midlands Universities, the British Geological Survey and the surrounding industrial base to deliver a step- change in energy research and development, helping to secure the UK’s leadership position in the sector. And he called the Midlands “the UK’s Engine for Growth”. While apposite, it was the first time the phrase had been aired. It caused a ripple but like it or not, it will stick. A month on and it’s already everywhere. But what does it mean? It’s possible that he simply needed a new handle to grab on to. Twenty-five months earlier,

he introduced us to his Northern Powerhouse Ambergate Chapel Studio Photography, Picture of courtesy Carol Taylor, concept. Last year the Northern Powerhouse was given its own Minister. Perhaps the ‘Engine for Growth’ will get its own Minister too? By now, everybody knows what the Northern Powerhouse is (don’t they?)… an attempt to corral the North's population of 15 million into a cohesive force to rival that of London and the South East. It would be “a collection of northern cities sufficiently close to each other that combined they can take on the world”, he said. By the north of England he meant, of course, George Osborne announces Engine for Growth at Garrandale an area centred on Manchester but including Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds and York; so not Newcastle or Carlisle sort of north and not that close either geographically or culturally. ‘The Chancellor’s vision for meant global TV, radio and press coverage for And what masterplan was drawn up for the the Midlands is very different. Garrandale. (nearly) Northern Powerhouse? Darren Muzzlewhite, Founder and Partner at Well, once the cities unite, talk to each other He quite rightly sees the JJM Building Supplies, of Pride Park, Derby, who and establish a united front to challenge London region as the manufacturing was also in the audience, said: “I think it was under a super-mayor for an even greater Greater hub for UK plc’ very positive. I think they understand now about Manchester, they will get upgraded railways local business and how it generates finance and (HS3) and a road tunnel under the Peak District employment. (an underground M62?) to enhance travel “The Midlands is a very strong manufacturing “It’s the private sector, not Government, which between them. hub in the centre of the country. What we do is creates jobs. We started in 2010 and we have The Chancellor’s vision for the Midlands is written on the tin, now it’s the turn of created 15 positions and are growing to 20 so very different. He quite rightly sees the region as Government to do what it has written on the from our point of view with regards to what he the manufacturing hub for UK plc; a centre for tin,” he said. was saying about connecting with local excellence and innovation. He added: “I thought it was marvellous that businesses, it was very positive. Malcolm Prentice, Group CEO of host the Chancellor chose a Derby company from “And I think the name is one of those where Garrandale, said he thought the new sobriquet which to make his first major speech after the the concept is absolutely correct. It does what it was an “absolutely true” reflection of what the Queen’s Speech about how the new Government says on the tin so it’s fine.” Midlands is but his “challenge to Government” will work with industry.” Axel Soeder, General Manager of Premier was to fulfil on its branding. From a media point of view, hosting the event Ribbon and Packaging Group, of Ilkeston, said: “I

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POLITICS INSIDE WESTMINSTER

Derby North’s new MP AMANDA SOLLOWAY says business must be at the heart of everything she, and the Conservative Government, does

Malcolm Prentice greets George Osborne Adjusting to the have seen George Osborne on TV but never in person and I was quite impressed. He came over as quite honest. He was distinct and was talking about things that are happening and should be pace of Westminster happening in the Midlands. He answered questions without seeming to dodge issues. My first two months as an MP have been hectic, to say the least. I’m still adjusting to the “As for the name, I thought it was an accurate pace of Westminster life after being elected as the Member of Parliament for Derby description for two reasons. The concentration North in May this year. on London for finance could end quickly if the I am the first female MP to represent Derby North and its first Conservative MP in 18 UK leaves the EU as it would no longer be the years. I don’t have a degree, I don’t really have A-levels to talk about, but I do have place to deal with and, secondly, historically, the commonsense and a business background. Midlands is the industrial engine and if there’s a It’s very clear to me that business has to ‘My party and this chance of getting industrial power running again be at the heart of everything that we do Government knows that, at in the country then it’s going to happen in the as a Government and everything that I do Midlands.” as a local MP. the end of the day, it’s Kevin Palmer, of Derby-based Kevin Palmer Unemployment has fallen to its lowest businesses that create jobs’ Media Services, said: “We expected a major level since 2008 and I know that Government announcement, but in his statement governments are usually quite quick to take the credit for creating jobs. the Chancellor did not say anything new, a point I’m proud, however, that my party and this Government knows that, at the end of the made by other attendees. day, it’s businesses that create jobs and help people off benefits and into work. “When pressed by the media, he did seem to We understand the contribution that businesses like yours make to our society, which is push the (unpopular) idea of an elected mayor why we’ve tried to make it easier to start a business, easier to expand your businesses as a condition of any devolved powers. Mr and easier to take people on. Osborne revelled in the fact that a Conservative Our record on this is clear, we have helped, and we’ll continue to help, businesses by: had won the Derby North seat for the first time since 1997. • Cutting the jobs tax – saving businesses up to £2,000 and enabling them to provide “I'm happy with the slogan Engine for more jobs for local people, Growth – the Derwent Valley was the cradle of the Industrial Revolution and leading companies • Scrapping the jobs tax altogether for under 21s – so it’s easier for businesses to give in the area have continued ever since to be the young people a start in life, powerhouse of this country's manufacturing." John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing • Investing in better infrastructure, including roads, rail, and broadband – so it’s easier to Derby, said: “Engine for Growth seems to be reach customers, quite a sensible moniker, a sensible way to • Cutting corporation tax – helping companies invest and grow, and describe the Midlands. “Northern Powerhouse is a laudable ambition •Getting rid of unnecessary red tape – freeing up businesses to concentrate on expansion. but there’s nothing to back it up while in the Midlands we have the facts and figures, the I really hope that your business has felt the benefits of some of these policies and that we numbers, to back up the brand. can work together to bring growth, investment and, importantly, jobs to our region. “The Midlands is home to many original With plans for the next five years taking shape all around us, now is an important time equipment manufacturers – JCB, Rolls-Royce – to stress the importance of the Midlands for the country’s economic future. which means you have the SMEs supply chain Our region offers the best of British industry, science and retail, and we all need to infrastructure employing even more people than bang the drum for continued investment in our cities, towns, and counties. the OEMs – so Engine for Growth does seem to I know that if we speak with one loud voice, the Midlands will be Britain’s Engine for make some sense.” Growth for many, many years to come. D2N2 Chief Executive David Ralph said: “Regions such as ours are driving the UK economic recovery. It makes sense to give D2N2 ABOUT AMANDA SOLLOWAY and other areas greater powers to determine Amanda has pledged to put business at the heart of her term in office. She is a senior level their own economic priorities, based on the Management Consultant specialising in behavioural development and presentation skills. expertise and local knowledge of those who live Amanda spent her first 15 years in retail management and a further 15 years in HR across and work here.” the not-for-profit and private sector, supporting manufacturing, warehousing and retail. Chamber President Liz Fothergill added: She is a Fellow of the CIPD, a fully qualified coach, NLP Master Practitioner, co-author “While there was nothing necessarily new in of Emotional Intelligence – ‘Activities for Developing You and Your Business’ and a what the Chancellor said – much of what he licensed practitioner with Insights Discovery. spoke of had already been announced in his Firmly committed to a volunteering ethos Amanda is a parish councillor, a volunteer Budget and the Queen’s Speech – it was good to with the Princes Trust, a governor for a local secondary school and active member within see him once again acknowledge how important the Girl Guide movement, Board member for the Open College Network, and was a this region is to UK plc.” founder member and is a director of ‘milliontreesderbyshire’.

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INTERVIEW Engaging with business

Since its inception in 2012, Love Business East Midlands has grown from a simple networking and exhibition event into the region’s biggest pure business expo, attracting thousands of delegates through its doors and spawning copycat events across the country. Editor Jon Smart talked to the event’s main driving force, STEVE MEGSON, Managing Director of Chamber member Quiet Storm Solutions, about his plans for the future of Love Business

Jon Smart: What is Love Business and where did the idea ‘I want the day to be a success for come from? Steve Megson: Love Business started as a one-off business the exhibitors, but I also want it to event, but it has grown into a movement which really be a success for the delegates and touches and engages people. for the speakers and for everyone Most people I work with love business, are passionate about doing business and love the buzz of it. Love Business else involved in it’ encapsulates all of that, as well as connecting businesses with all the organisations which can help SMEs. Working closely with organisations like the Chamber, we The idea came from an old Heineken advert, where they are using the event as a focal point to bring together a were digging up a road, and while they had the road up, all good mix which informs, inspires and provides an enjoyable of the utilities came together to minimise the disruption. business-stimulating experience. I thought it was great, because it showed that they were The Love Business brand is expanding to deliver value to thinking about the people using the road and working together business owners throughout the year, rather than be just a to help them. As a businessman, it got me thinking that there single event. are so many organisations out there which can help SMEs, but A free networking groups directory was launched last there was nowhere I could go to see them all in one go. year and with the new website launch, there will also be a So, the idea was to bring them all together, the grant free business directory. The aim is to help business owners funding agencies, the business support organisations like and managers find places to meet people they can do the Chamber, the universities and colleges, and really business with. enable them to focus on serving the SME sector as a It’s also the only event which manages to attract larger customer base. That's how Love Business was born. businesses and SMEs. I think that’s why it has been so successful. JS: How have you seen the event develop since it started in 2012? JS: What has been your favourite Love Business moment SM: The first event was on a much smaller scale than this year’s, so far? space-wise, and we didn’t have big exhibition stands, it was SM: I think after this year’s event, when we received the more like table-top stands and pull-up banners, but we did have feedback from the delegates and exhibitors and it was so some good quality speakers and some great exhibitors. positive. It was a big jump from the Paddock Suite to the However, that first event was rammed, it was like a International Exhibition Hall. So, to hear it was a success from football crowd and there was a real buzz about the place, the delegates, exhibitors and sponsors was very rewarding. which gave us the confidence to make it even bigger and better each year. JS: What does your day look like at Love Business? Do you Year-on-year, the event has grown in size, delegate get the chance to take a step back and breathe it all in? numbers and interest, to the point where we have SM: A lot of work goes into getting the main space ready completely outgrown the original floor space in the Paddock before the event, but on the day itself I usually stay over at Suite and now hold the event in the main exhibition hall at the Premier Inn at the airport and get to the venue for Donington Park, which is about six times bigger... and fill it about 6.30am. out. This hasn’t all been down to me, I need to point out I’ll be walking up and down, looking for things that don’t that without the support of the ‘partners and sponsors’ Love quite look right as the exhibitors are setting up. I want the Business could not have grown in the way it has. It has day to be a success for the exhibitors, but I also want it to obviously hit a need within the business community and be a success for the delegates and for the speakers and for with organisations which want to engage with them. everyone else involved in it, so I’m constantly buzzing around to make sure that everything is running smoothly. JS: What are your plans for next year… and beyond? Because this year was such a huge step-change from SM: Love Business is going to become more focused on previous events, I needed to be extra vigilant, because with different industry sectors, to give the event and speaker that came a bigger risk of something not being quite how I format more depth. wanted it to be.

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The Love Business event brings a wide variety of companies and support agencies together from all over the East Midlands

Then, most of the day is spent walking the event, talking to people and asking them what they got out of it, what went well and what could have gone better for them, always striving to improve it.

JS: The Chancellor was in Derby recently to unveil his ambition to make the Midlands the UK’s ‘Engine for Growth’ – do you think events like Love Business will help him achieve that? SM: I believe Love Business does help to bring the region’s businesses together, because it’s not politically biased, it’s not organisationally biased, it’s not sectorally biased – it’s all about celebrating what we’ve got here. I’m normally very sceptical about political statements, but I do believe that the power to become the ‘Engine for Growth’ is within all our capabilities. Belief is a funny thing. Henry Ford once said: “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right”, which is bang on. If you think you can achieve something, you probably will achieve it. If you think you can’t, you’ll probably fail. So, the businesses operating here need to have belief in us becoming the ‘Engine for Growth’. Love Business supports this because it focuses on the positives, showcases examples of success and shares the secrets of what growing companies are doing differently – usually it’s a simple change in how they think about their customers.

JS: As a local businessman, what do you think the region’s strengths are and what are its weaknesses? SM: When you look at the East Midlands, we have some fantastic advantages over other regions and when you look at the business operating here, we punch well above our weight. We’ve got the UK’s biggest manufacturers in construction based here, the biggest manufacturers in engineering, in automotive. We’ve got the three biggest car dealerships in the country in Sturgess, Sytner and Pendragon. We’ve got Experian, Boots, JCB, Caterpillar… I could go on – all within a 35-mile radius of the airport. It’s a great place to do business. Plus, you’ve got great motorway links and the busiest air freight and cargo operation in the country.

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INTERVIEW

The weakness, if any, is our failure to celebrate our collective successes. We’ve got three good-sized cities and counties here in this part of the East Midlands, with a great mix of businesses, but they are all very insular. They do not cross-fertilise, but if we can create something that enables them to do so, then it will break down those borders and Love Business does that, because it sits right in the middle and attracts people from all corners of the three cities and counties. That’s what’s key – it’s that central approach, rather than the three city approach, that will bring people together. But then we’ve got to shout about it.

JS: Do you think we celebrate and showcase our successes enough here in the East Midlands? SM: As a collective, no, we do seem to shuffle our feet. The recession kicked in during 2008, yet by 2012, we were working with businesses that were absolutely flying, because they’d cut their cloth accordingly during the downturn, spotted where the opportunities were and gone after it. Yet it was still every day in the news all about how many businesses were shutting down, how many people were being made redundant, talking us down all the time. The fact is, good news doesn’t sell. I can remember seeing Alastair Campbell at a Chamber event once and he actually said that 20 years ago you’d see one bad headline for every three good ones. Now that ratio has shifted, so you get 19 bad headlines to every good one, because bad news sells. That’s the cycle we’ve got to break.

JS: Tell me about your business, how did it start and what has its journey been so far? SM: I started as a graphic designer after studying at Derby Collage of Art. I was really lucky in my first role and worked on L-R: Steve, David & Philip Megson a variety of international brands across a wide range of disciplines from events, advertising and sales materials. I quickly learned that the objective of almost all communications is to ‘persuade people to do something’ or ‘directly increase sales’, so my journey of self-development started. JS: What are your plans for the next five years? ‘It was more by I’m a voracious learner of all things sales or behaviour- SM: I’m not getting any younger, so I want to bring a new related. I’ve studied from books and continually invest in management team through to continue the work we do at circumstance self-development programmes. Quiet Storm, so the five-year plan is to offer share options than by design Unless you are working in a vacuum, you need to to the right people, whether that’s existing employees or that I ended up communicate. So understanding how different personalities new people. They’ve got to share our mindset, though. interpret information is a critical skill. Regarding Love Business, it’s a passion, so I’d like to working with my The key to everything we do here is understanding what continue to develop the brand and see what else we can brothers, but it works, that’s why we are called Quiet Storm Solutions, achieve... possibly setting up a high-level leadership ‘think has worked out because we’re all about fixing people’s problems. And those tank’ or leadership peer group, maybe in partnership with problems aren't always necessarily about a new brochure or the Chamber? well’ website or something like that, even though the client will come thinking that's what their problem is. It's our job to JS: Finally, what do you do when you’re not at work – do peel back the layers to understand what they really need you have a family and what are your hobbies? and deliver that, not give them what they think they want, SM: I met my wife when I was 21 and after seven years of only for it to not achieve results they’re looking for. living together, we married and have now been together for 30 very happy years. We have two children, Josh, 21, and JS: You work at Quiet Storm with your brothers – how Libby, 19. does the family dynamic work within the business? I’ve always had a passion for the sea, which is unusual SM: It was more by circumstance than by design that I ended given that I was born and bred in Derby – one of the most up working with my brothers, but it has worked out well. landlocked places in the UK. I had a friend who had literally badgered me to give When the family were young, we had a holiday home in them a job for more than a year, so I created a role for Poole to make sure I spent quality time at the weekends them, bought them a company car and gave them the job, with them. but they left within 18 months. They did me a huge favour My love of boats and the freedom brought about by the because at the same time, my brother, Philip, had just lost internet meant I could work in the Midlands and live in his company car and was looking for new opportunities, so Poole, so ten years ago, we moved permanently. I I was able to bring him on board. commute, driving up the 200 miles on a Tuesday and back My youngest brother, David, had always done graphic on a Thursday night – working from my home office on design on a freelance basis for us and again, he was Mondays and Fridays. looking around because he wasn’t happy where he was. My sailing bug must have rubbed off on the kids as well I put it to the team, because they may not have wanted – Josh works on Eddie Jordan’s super yacht, Blush, out of three brothers within the business, but they all knew him Monaco and Libby works with City Cruises in Poole and knew he could hit the ground running, so we brought Harbour. him on board as well. As a Derby lad, I’m a lifelong supporter of the Rams, I love working with them. Our skills complement each although I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like these other and we have the same moral code and value system, days, given that I spend most weekends in Poole. so we know we can trust each other. That’s perhaps a good thing, given the way last season I live 200 miles away from the office in Coalville, so I’d ended, although I’m looking forward to seeing them have probably see very little of them if we didn’t work together. another crack at promotion this year.

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BUSINESS NETWORK

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FEATURE ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

Renovate to accumulate

Derelict buildings in the East Midlands could be brought back into use and provide your company with an attractive tax break

East Midlands businesses looking for new premises could North East Derbyshire, Nottingham and South Derbyshire. widen their options and create a valuable tax break by In Leicester, for instance, the wards included are Abbey, renovating a derelict building in a disadvantaged area. Beaumont Leys, Belgrave, Castle, Latimer, New Parks and Upfront tax relief of 100% is available via the Business Rushey Mead. In Derby it’s Alvaston, Arboretum, Darley, Premises Renovation Allowance (BPRA) for those firms Derwent and Sinfin. And in Nottingham the wards are looking to move office, factory or business site. Basford, Bilborough, Bridge, Bulwell, Dales, Dunkirk and And with more than 100 local authority wards in the East Lenton, Leen Valley, and Radford and Park. Mark J Rees partner Midlands considered disadvantaged, there is plenty of You can find out for sure if a location you have your eye Mark Harrison choice of location and plenty of disused buildings to on qualifies by using an online postcode checker on choose from. www.ukassistedareasmap.com/ieindex.html ‘The allowance’s Mark Harrison, a partner at Leicester chartered Mark said: “The allowance doesn’t apply to the cost of definition of accountants Mark J Rees, said: “We’re not just talking the land, but land prices in disadvantaged areas can be tumbledown wrecks. The allowance’s definition of derelict attractive. derelict is that the is that the building has been unused for at least a year and “Notably, the requirement for a property to be unused building has been was previously used for commercial premises. for a year doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be unused at unused for at least “The renovations you do are not deemed as a ‘repair’ for the time of purchase. Provided a year elapses before any tax purposes, but seen instead as a capital cost. Your work starts, you can still qualify for BPRA. a year and was business is investing in premises that can be made fit for “It won’t be clawed back as long as you don’t sell the previously used purpose to your specification and also be a catalyst for building within five years from the date it became available for commercial regeneration in a disadvantaged area.” for use. Qualifying as ‘disadvantaged’ within Derbyshire, “This relief is only available until 2017, so it’s important to premises’ Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire are various wards in the think now about how you might take advantage of it in the local authority areas of Amber Valley, Ashfield, Bassetlaw, next couple of years. It’s a specialist area, so ask to speak Bolsover, Broxtowe, Chesterfield, Derby, Erewash, Gedling, to a tax expert at your accountancy firm, who’ll be able to High Peak, Leicester, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, advise you.”

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ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES FEATURE

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FEATURE ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES AIM higher

VINNY PATEL, from BDO LLP in the East Midlands, urges more firms in the region to grow their business on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM)

When AIM opened on 19 June 1995, John clients – are thriving. Clinigen Group plc is Major was Prime Minister, Barings Bank the East Midlands’ largest company by had recently collapsed, and the market cap, valued at circa £700m. technological revolution was in its infancy AIM has also proved a springboard for with only 1% of the UK population having growth for Derby-based Mortgage Advice internet access. Bureau. AIM – the Alternative Investment At admission in November last year, it Market – started with just 10 companies had a market cap of £81m and this is now and an average market value below £9m. valued at £115m. Its purpose was to be the UK’s junior We’re talking big numbers. It’s clear that growth market, providing growth capital AIM can be an excellent source of funding for companies not established enough for and growth for small and mid-market firms the Main Market. that want to become the big businesses of For the best part of the past 20 years – tomorrow. minus the dotcom bubble, 9/11 and the Being an AIM-listed company isn’t easy. global financial crisis – that is exactly what Short terms dips in performance can have it did, raising almost £92bn in the process. an adverse effect on share price and Today, there are 1,074 AIM-listed companies, comprising 864 UK and 210 ‘As the economy international firms with a combined market capitalisation of £75.3bn. In continues to grow and the East Midlands, there are 24 confidence remains high, companies listed on AIM with a total an admission on AIM is a market capitalisation of £2.4bn. Some of the region’s best known hugely credible option for AIM-listed companies – and BDO fast growth businesses’

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ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES FEATURE

AIM Q&A

WHAT IS AIM? AIM is the London Stock Exchange’s international market for smaller growing companies. A wide range of businesses including early stage, private equity backed, as well as more established companies join AIM seeking access to growth capital.

WHICH COMPANIES DOES IT SUIT? AIM best suits growing companies with the need to access equity capital on a regular basis, for growth acquisition or expansion. It’s for those who are not large or established enough for the Main Market.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING ON AIM? • Access to a large and highly receptive investor base. Vinny Patel from BDO LLP says the Alternative Investment Market offers real opportunity Institutional and retail investors invest in AIM companies. For example, larger international investment firms can be found on the shareholder investor confidence. You have to be growth businesses. And, although it is registers of the larger AIM companies and specialist prepared to comply with the governance known as the junior market, it is evident investors, such as Venture Capital Trusts, invest in expectations of shareholders and the that star performers in the East Midlands many of the smaller companies. demands of market regulators – none of can grow into substantial and highly which comes cheap – but it all adds to the influential plcs. • An objective value for the company and its shares, credibility and profile of the business. The market provides an external proof of facilitating the use of equity for acquisitions and to There can be little question that activity performance and, while no-one would deny incentivise staff. has slowed compared to pre-2008, but that running a listed company can have its what we are seeing now is a more challenges, it can bring extraordinary gains • A balanced regulatory environment specifically discerning investor base looking for quality for the best managed firms. tailored to the needs of smaller companies and management teams and sustainable We recently hosted an event with the supported by a large and experienced community of professional advisers. business models that will be around for London Stock Exchange (LSE) in many years to come. That has to be good Nottingham to celebrate the 20 year • International visibility and credibility for companies news. anniversary of AIM. It was a great not only with their customers and suppliers, but As the economy continues to grow and opportunity for firms in the region – both with a wider set of stakeholders including investors, confidence remains high, an admission on listed and aspiring – to hear about the rise advisers and analysts. AIM is a hugely credible option for fast of this remarkable market.

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FOCUS FEATURE Oh we do like to be beside the seaside…

Political parties appear to have a penchant for seaside towns for their annual conferences. Why not hold them in the East Midlands? We have the conference space and we have the hotels. Deputy Editor Andy Hibberd asked each of the three main political parties why they traditionally seem to shun the country’s heartland and then asked regional venues and influencers “would we want them anyway?” The results might surprise some readers

Historically, the Conservatives have enjoyed a week in Brighton for their yearly love-in. This year those same hotel rooms will be occupied by Labour in September – the Tories having chosen Manchester for their huddle in October. The LibDems will also be heading for the south coast, returning to Bournemouth in September. Is it the availability of off-season accommodation and conference facilities that draws them year after year to the coast or do delegates and organisers, as the song says, just like to be beside the seaside? Since the turn of the century, the Labour Party, by way of example, has ventured away from the coast only five times (Manchester each time) for its conference. The Tories have moved inland more in the past five years, using Birmingham in 2010, 2012 and 2014. But none has ventured into the East Midlands. None has made use of the off-season accommodation and conference facilities in Derby, Nottingham or Leicester. Surely the East Midlands is a better place to hold the Leicester’s Athena is among the region’s leading venues annual get-together. It’s easier to get to for many delegates and it would show that the parties have an interest in “Accommodation, in terms of hotel rooms, is the biggest England’s newly named ‘Engine for Growth’. problem for us in Leicester city centre,” she said. So why do the main political parties continue to use “The hotels don’t work together to do block-bookings mostly coastal towns and cities for their party conferences? and that is costing us all money. The sad truth is we might never know because despite “We have Curve Theatre across the road and we could being asked none of them could, or would, give us an work together with them holding the conference and us answer. providing catering, dinner, press meetings… we could do that. According to Hira Ram, Venue Manager for Leicester’s “We did the FSB conference here in Leicester and it went Athena, it isn’t down to the amount of conference space really well, but it is always the accommodation that is the available. problem.

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FOCUS FEATURE

The annual conferences of the major political parties bring a major boost to the local economy of their host cities

‘Delegates will “The big hotels are out of town and even though we distance of the main venues. offered to provide transportation they weren’t interested.” “As far as I know, the biggest problem would be scale of eat out in Hira said Athena had lost about £60,000 worth of the event, the number of delegates. Most of our venues can Leicester, shop conferences so far this year, turned away because the handle hundreds but not thousands of delegates so if I’m in Leicester… in organisers couldn’t block-book rooms. being brutally honest I would say that was the biggest Does she have an answer? problem. short, everybody “You could build more hotels,” she half-quipped. “We have worked with Donington Park before, so there’s wins.’ “Alternatively, perhaps the council could work with the a model for using multiple venues, but it comes down to hotels to encourage block-bookings because if we have the how far delegates are prepared to travel between venues conferences and the hotel bookings the delegates will eat and hotels.” out in Leicester, shop in Leicester… in short, everybody According to the Hilary Hall, Chief Executive of the wins. Midlands Association for Restaurants, Caterers, Hotels and “Or, perhaps the Government could step in to encourage Entertainment, which is based in Birmingham, there are greater collaboration and a better focus on the regions.” other over-arching reasons why cities such as Derby, Simon Gribbon, Head of Communications for Leicester Nottingham and Leicester won’t win the political party Shire Promotions, the tourism organisation for Leicester annual conference business. and Leicestershire, said the biggest problem in trying to The first is that “because of the recession” many local lure the political parties away from the coast and to the authorities withdrew funding for tourism initiatives, and East Midlands could come down to size of the conferences. that included agencies set up to chase business such as “We did have the Labour Youth Conference here in conferences. Leicester a couple of years ago and we have spoken to the And the other reason is that the hotels probably political parties in the past, but I would guess it would be wouldn’t want to encourage the conferences. the physical requirements of the conferences that would be “With the seaside resorts, their business falls off a cliff the biggest problem. when the schools go back so they welcome the big “We have in the past adopted a multi-venue model conferences. For cities like Derby, Nottingham and which has worked well – main events held in one Leicester, they rely on commercial trade and see huge conference centre and break out events at others in the city declines in business during the school holidays which picks and with delegates staying at different hotels across the up again when the school holidays end,” Hilary said. city, so that’s not a major problem. John Forkin, Managing Director of inward investment “Where the hotels are in the city means there is a organisation Marketing Derby, agreed with both geographical issue, but they are within walking schools of thought.

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FOCUS FEATURE

Local event successes include Love Business (left) and the visit by the Bank of England Governor Mark Carney

“We have the conference space but what we don’t have We spoke to and emailed the media teams at each of the three main is hotels close to large conference facilities. You need hotel political parties, the Conservatives, Labour and the Liberal Democrats. bedrooms and B&Bs within a hundred yards or so of the Each was sent the same questions and each was told that the other conference facilities. two were being asked for the same information. These were the “I’d agree that our hotels rely on business traffic Monday questions we asked: to Thursday nights. To cater for party political conferences, 1. Why are the seaside towns your preferred venue? for example, hotels would have to clear all their rooms and say to their regular customers who keep them in business 2. Why does your party not use facilities in the heart of the country, Monday to Thursday: ‘Sorry, we have no rooms.’ ie, in Nottingham, Derby, Leicester? “We might not have the right infrastructure for holding major political conferences but I question whether it would 3. Has your party ever held its conference in the East Midlands? be right to build it up because what we need to be building 4. When was the last time your party conference was held other than is our tourism and leisure business. in Blackpool, Brighton, Bournemouth, Manchester? “At weekends, volumes and prices drop so if we had a strategy as a region it would be to drive up weekend bookings. 5. How many people would you normally expect to attend your “In terms of low-hanging fruit, I don’t think party political annual party conference? conferences would be the right market to aim for.” 6. How many rooms does the party usually book for senior But Andrew May, General Manager of the Conferencing delegates, speakers, etc? Division of the University of Nottingham, disagreed. He said: “We would welcome the opportunity to host a 7. What is the biggest conference facility capacity you need? party political event. The conference division has 8. Do you need additional conference facilities close to the main experience of managing events of this scale and has the conference venue? If so, what? infrastructure in place to deliver and support it. “Hosting a political event would demonstrate our 9. Are there special considerations which are met by the seaside capabilities and also showcase the investment being made venues but which might not be met by facilities in, for example, by the University in its buildings and campuses. Nottingham? “With halls of residence accommodation converting into 10. Could we have an attributable quote please saying why venues are over 3,000 conference standard bedrooms during vacation time, our conferencing facilities are ideally placed to host chosen? large residential events. In addition, a 202 bedroom multi- Politicians have a reputation for either not answering questions or award winning eco hotel adjacent to the main conference giving only the answer they want to give regardless of the question. It centre, is available all year round. seems that habit extends to the parties’ media practitioners too. This “Having hosted party leaders in the past, the university was the only answer we received: has the experience and is well placed to host visitors where Elliott Burton, for the Conservatives said: “Our conference in 2014, heightened security is required and I would be delighted to 2012 and 2010 was held in Birmingham, the Midlands, so not sure the welcome a major conference of this nature to the city of premise of this article quite applies to us.” Nottingham.” And he was supported by Simon Gray, Chief Executive of Nottingham Means Business, who said: “Politicians talk about the Midlands being the Engine for Growth. We need to get political decision-makers out of London to Nottingham so that we can showcase the city, the county and the region. “It would be a golden opportunity, why would you not do it? My view is yes we should do it, it would be a boost LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK to our local economy for a period of time. What can Derby, Nottingham and Leicester do, individually or together, to bring “It’s not just about getting the political parties up here, bigger conferences to the region? Should they chase the party political it’s about turning the world’s media on the region and with conferences? Email your thoughts to [email protected] – with the whole devolution debate in the background why ‘conferences’ in the subject line. wouldn’t you want to do it.”

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BUSINESS NETWORK

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FEATURE REGENERATING THE EAST MIDLANDS New lease of life

Canalside housing scheme breathes new life into Leicester textiles factory

A former textiles factory in the heart of Leicester city centre has been converted into an £8m affordable housing scheme to support vulnerable adults. Abbey Mill, the late 19th century building on Abbey Park Street, has been revitalised to create 78 one- and two-bedroom apartments and will operate as a special facility to support adults as well as the elderly. A major project for the city, Abbey Mill has been refurbished by award-winning contractor and developer, William Davis on behalf of specialist housing provider, Asra Housing Group. To celebrate the scheme’s completion, representatives from both organisations were joined by Leicester’s City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, to cut the ribbon and officially open the building. Sir Peter said: “I’m delighted that Asra has had the vision to bring this historic building back into use, especially as it provides such wonderful homes. They have a brilliant track record in these schemes, particularly in the neighbouring Wolsey building.” Part-funded by Leicester City Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, the refurbishment of Abbey Mill has retained the building’s historic shell while completely updating the interior. Original steel columns have been incorporated into the development’s design. A new pedestrian bridge links the Officially opening the Abbey Mill modern and practical resource for It is the first Education Funding development with its sister scheme (front l-r) Sir Peter Soulsby, local people in the heart of our Agency (EFA) project for the building, The Wolsey, also Leicester City Mayor; Matt Cooney, vibrant city.” Midlands-based contractor, GF redeveloped by William Davis, and Chief Executive, Asra Housing Group; Dating back to the mid-1880s, Tomlinson. ensures residents have access to all and Guy Higgins, Managing Director Abbey Mill and The Wolsey were The Nottingham Free School, part facilities including IT suite, hobby William Davis Ltd; with (back l-r) originally factories creating hosiery of the Torch Academy Gateway rooms, lounge, dining area and Alam Navsa, Maynard Chair; Jaffer and warmth-preserving clothing Trust, first opened on the ground Kapasi OBE, Asra Housing Group communal gardens. under the Wolsey brand. floor of the site last September to 90 board member; and Kishor Jadavji, Guy Higgins, Managing Director Ross Walk Chair Meanwhile, work has started to Year 7 pupils. at William Davis, said: “The convert a former clothing factory in Andy Sewards, Director at GF regeneration of Abbey Mill and The Nottingham into a secondary school. Tomlinson, said: “We are delighted Wolsey has created a landmark The 34-week refurbishment, to have been selected for this Extra Care facility, which we believe being carried out by GF Tomlinson, project. is the largest of its kind in Leicester. includes classrooms, science “Nottingham Free School will It was a challenging build project, laboratories, art rooms, assembly make a significant difference to not only preserving and restoring hall, catering facilities, staff offices families within the local community the old, but ensuring new elements and staff parking. Doors should as well as regenerating a building of the scheme were in keeping with open in September to the first of which was no longer in use. the heritage of the site. It is really nearly 600 pupils, aged 11 to 18. “GF Tomlinson is proud to be pleasing to have been part of the The building, on Haydn Road, part of the EFA Regional team that has helped turn these Sherwood, used to be part of the Framework and to be celebrating disused buildings into a superb Courtaulds factory. the start of work on site.”

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REGENERATING THE EAST MIDLANDS FEATURE

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FEATURE REGENERATING THE EAST MIDLANDS Powering ahead

PETER SWALLOW, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, explains how this town has big plans to attract inward investment and create jobs

George Osborne recently unveiled his vision for creating a ‘Midlands Engine’ – some would argue that Chesterfield got there first having been home to ‘Father of the Railways’ himself George Stephenson from 1838 until 1859. Although the Midlands is now being considered Britain’s Engine for Growth and is part of the Government’s plan for a Northern Powerhouse, I believe we have already started to lay the foundations of an East Midlands Powerhouse in Chesterfield. The market town in Derbyshire was put on the international map at the beginning of the year when it was announced as the location for the ground-breaking £400m Peak Resorts development. This investment will bring a significant number of homes, leisure facilities, restaurants, people and businesses to Chesterfield which, importantly, will create thousands of jobs. However, Peak Resorts is only part of the investment forecast for Chesterfield. There is actually £1bn worth of development taking place in the borough over the next ten years, all set to awaken this sleeping giant of a town. As well as Peak Resorts, there are the £320m Chesterfield Waterside, £88m Markham Vale and Northern Gateway developments. Markham Vale is part of one of the UK’s biggest Enterprise Zones, which has become a major UK hot spot for commercial growth. Once the flagship industrial and distribution development at Markham Vale is complete, the site will have capacity to bring an estimated 2,100 jobs to the town by 2022. As well as the site’s location, its financial incentives, including 100% Capital Allowance relief, have already attracted leading national and international names such as Andrew Page, Gould Alloys and leading UK packaging manufacturer Inspirepac. The combined effects of the £1bn of developments will bring a significant number of jobs and people to the area, and with these come more spending power in our local economy. Everyone in the town will Peter Swallow of Destination Chesterfield benefit.

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REGENERATING THE EAST MIDLANDS FEATURE

Affordable housing scheme moves ahead Work is progressing well on a new £2.2m affordable housing scheme in the centre of Coalville, Leicestershire, with demolition of the former Pick & Shovel public house nearing completion. Local engineering consultancy M-EC, based in Ibstock, has been commissioned to undertake all engineering works on the scheme, which is being built by Lindum Construction on behalf of EMH Group. M-EC has undertaken a L-R: Darren Leather, Site Manager topographical survey, utilities (Lindum Construction) with Eddie enquiries, ground investigation Mewies, Managing Director (M-EC) works and highways negotiations, and Andy Barradell, Affordable as well as preparing a flood risk Housing Manager (Lindum assessment, drainage designs and Construction) checking plans during structural survey for the whole site. demolition of the former Pick & The consultancy has also Shovel public house in Coalville. produced a detailed method statement specifically for the opted on to the team involved in its demolition, as the site shares a party transformation,” said Eddie Mewies, wall with an adjacent building. To Managing Director at M-EC. “With a avoid any damage, it has designed number of constraints to consider, an underpinning system for the namely close proximity to the busy party wall, including suitable High Street and the shared party temporary propping/support, and is wall, we needed to devise a conducting regular site inspections. support system that would enable “This site has been the subject of Lindum to demolish the former much public interest and as a local public house safely and with as Chesterfield offers a range of benefits as a business destination business, we were excited to be co- little disruption as possible.”

Sandwiched between Sheffield, Nottingham, Manchester and Derby, Chesterfield has often flown under the radar of investors. Those of us involved in the town, whether developers, councillors or businesses, have long since recognised and understood its benefits as a business destination. That’s why we’re investing money now in creating the infrastructure to ‘One of the top towns support the influx of jobs and people. with the least vacant Chesterfield College is expanding its provision and the University of Derby shops, second only to is opening a campus in the town in London’s Kensington 2016. We have hundreds of new High Street’ homes being delivered and we’re enhancing the town’s gateways. We want Chesterfield to be a place people stop and stay in, rather than travel through to the Peak District. The town has outstanding transport links, including the M1, being less than two hours from London by train, and within an hour of two major airports. It’s on the edge of the Peak District National Park, a benefit which Peak Resorts is certainly going to capitalise upon. We have a wealth of commercial, residential, industrial and office properties available at prices which are lower than neighbouring cities. It is fair to say that as a town we have weathered some difficult times, but come out stronger for it. The recent recession appeared to have a less significant impact on the Chesterfield economy as whole – indeed employment has grown to our highest ever and the town was named as one of the top towns with the least vacant shops, second only to London’s Kensington High Street. Chesterfield has big ideas. Recognising the huge opportunity to attract more investment, new businesses, residents, students and tourists to Chesterfield, in 2010 we took the bold decision to establish the town’s inward investment campaign, Destination Chesterfield. Indeed, as the leader of the council John Burrows is always keen to say: “We could have chosen to hunker down and ride out the recession, but we didn’t. We chose to be proactive and forge ahead with our marketing plans and this shows in the recent employment, tourism and retail figures.” Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Chesterfield Borough Council and the local business community, Destination Chesterfield is putting the town on the regional, national and international map, ensuring that its modern awakening is heard by investors.

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TRAINING & EVENTS

CHAMBER BUSINESS TRAINING The Chamber offers a wide and diverse range of training support for members and non-members alike, all with the aim of enhancing skills, developing knowledge and driving the growth of your business

AUGUST 2015 SEPTEMBER 2015 Effective Team Leader Time Management Delivering a Date: 5 and 6 August Date: 2 September Location: Nottingham Location: Chesterfield A two-day course for newly A one-day course for anyone who mailbox solution appointed line managers or existing feels that their management of time managers seeking a working is putting their life out of balance and You’ve got mail… knowledge of good practice causing them stress. But far from being the happy- techniques in managing and getting ever-after rom-com movie, it has the best from staff. Understanding Business Finance become something of a crisis for Date: 5 September many office workers. Time Management Location: Derby From what members tell the Date: 12 August A one-day course providing an Chamber, most computer users now Location: Nottingham overview of the most common spend over an hour a day coping A one-day course for anyone who financial terms and providing feels that their management of time techniques to help you understand with mostly unnecessary and is putting their life out of balance and and control your finances. unwanted emails. “It is far too easy today to fire off causing them stress. Beat the problem of unwanted emails Bespoke Sales Training an email without any consideration Total Telesales Date: 8 September for the pressure it adds at the other Date: 12 August Location: Nottingham end,” said Chamber Business Training Manager Vicki Thompson. Location: Derby A course where the content is decided “Our inboxes fill up frighteningly quickly and if we don’t deal with them, A one-day course designed to cover by the maximum of six delegates prior particularly for people using older versions of Outlook, we soon find all elements of telephone selling from to the course, making it uniquely ourselves being bombarded with messages telling us our inbox is full. cold calling, capitalising on the bespoke to those attending. “The Chamber recently migrated to cloud-hosting using Office 365 and incoming call, dealing with complaints the trainer we use to help staff make the transition, Martin Perry, of FP and winning appointments. Advanced Excel Training, Derby, has devised a way of helping workers manage Outlook to Date: 9 September get back that lost hour. Through Martin, we are now going to offer that Intermediate Excel Location: Nottingham training outside the Chamber under the heading Taming Your Inbox.” Date: 17 August A one-day course which deals with The course start on 4 November. Location: Leicester automation and productivity features. It The Chamber is also offering a new course – Office 365 for Business. A one-day course to extend the includes areas such as conditional taking place on 9 October, the one-day course will provide an learner's basic knowledge of Excel formatting, validation and consolidation understanding of what Office 365 is and how it can be best used. and provide the learner with skills and methods, data analysis tools such as knowledge to produce more effective Pivot Tables and data summarising. and productive workbooks. Minute Taking Customer Service Excellence Date: 9 September e-Directory available Date: 19 August Location: Nottingham Location: Nottingham A highly-participative one-day course The new Business Training This course covers the key areas to which examines the techniques e-Directory is now available now ensure the customer experience is a required to ensure accurate, concise to download. good one. and readable minutes. It is interactive and easy to use, with links taking you directly to Getting Started in Marketing How to Write Marketing Materials further course information on our Date: 19 August Date: 11 September website. Once downloaded please Location: Derby Location: Derby share with others in your organisation. Gives an introduction to key marketing A one-day practical course which will concepts and how to apply them to help participants to understand and To download the new Business Training Directory, visit your business or organisation. start writing in different styles, www.emc-dnldigital.co.uk or get smart and use the QR code whether for a website, brochure, Advanced Excel packaging, news release or advertising. Date: 25 August Location: Chesterfield Foundation Excel A one-day course dealing with Date: 15 September Start a training journey automation and productivity features. Location: Chesterfield It includes areas such as conditional A one-day course focusing on The best person to judge the value of training is someone who has done formatting, validation and understanding how to be able to it, and the one thing that stands out above all others among testimonials consolidation methods, data analysis create your own spreadsheets and from our clients is that personal development should take the candidate tools such as Pivot Tables and data your own simple calculations using on a journey of discovery. summarising. formulae and functions. We currently have five development programmes available: Starting 16 September: Implementing and Managing the Vision Starting 1 October: Presentation Skills Development Programme A full list of training courses can be found at Starting 2 October: Engaging the Senior Management Team in the Vision www.emc-dnl.co.uk/training or call 0333 320 0333 ext 2153 Starting 13 October: Managers Development Programme or get smart and use the QR code. The latest course Starting 4 November: Director Development Programme brochure can be downloaded at http://bit.ly/1zXTtLD View these courses on our website and let us help you and your staff take the first steps of your journey.

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TRAINING & EVENTS

CONNECTING BUSINESS The Chamber’s networking and events calendar is one of the most active in the region. To see the full list of forthcoming events and to book your place, visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events

ENTERPRISING WOMEN EVENTS Connecting Business Location: Best Western Lion Hotel, Personal Development Masterclass Worksop Location: Yew Lodge Hotel, Kegworth Date: 11 September Date: 10 July Time: 8am–10.30am Time: 10.30am-3pm Cost: £10+VAT members, Cost: £35+VAT members, £30+VAT non-members £50+VAT non-members

Summer Reception PURE NETWORKING FREE FOR MEMBERS Location: Hothorpe Hall, Leicestershire Date: 31 July Pure Networking Evening Time: Noon–2pm Location: LOROS Hospice, Leicester Cost: £18+VAT members, Date: 14 July £36+VAT non-members Time: 5.30pm-7pm

Wine Tasting Pure Networking Evening Event to help you Location: NottsDerby Wine School at Location: Volvo Derby St James Hotel, Nottingham Date: 22 July Date: 6 August Time: 5.30pm–7pm Time: 5.30pm–8pm meet customers Pure Networking Evening Cost: £20+VAT members, Location: Riverbank, Nottingham £40+VAT non-members More than 350 business are expected to take part in a major meet-the- Date: 30 July Time: 5.30pm–7pm buyer event planned by the Chamber at Nottingham Belfry on 20 August. Golf Taster Day The Chamber Business Expo and Meet-the-Buyer event will provide Location: Cosby Golf Club, Leicestershire Pure Networking Morning extensive opportunities for firms to exhibit and to meet potential customers Date: 18 August Location: Brewin Dolphin, Leicester in one-to-one sessions. The event is free to East Midlands Chamber Time: 8.30am–2pm Date: 3 September members and only £15+VAT for non-members. Cost: £25+VAT members, Time: 7.30am–9am “We are hoping to attract over 350 businesses to what promises to be an £40+VAT non-members event not to be missed,” said Rachael Barton, the Chamber’s Head of Events. Pure Networking Morning Exhibitors will receive a full delegate list before the event, providing a NETWORKING Location: Tidyco, Derby Date: 8 September raft of new business contacts. “Participating businesses will get the Connecting Business Time: 7.30am–9am opportunity to generate new sales leads, win new customers and use the Location: MediCity, Nottingham platform to launch new products and services,” Rachael added. Date: 14 July BUSINESS LUNCHES One-to-one sessions with buyers must be booked in advance. Exhibition Time: 8am-10.30am tables cost from £100+VAT for members, from £200+VAT for non-members. Cost: £10+VAT members, Business Lunch Leicester £30+VAT non-members Location: Marriott Leicester Hotel For more details or to book email [email protected] or visit Date: 23 July Time: Noon-2pm www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events/7404/east-midlands-chamber-business-expo Connecting Business Location: Breadsall Priory Hotel & Cost: £22+VAT members, Country Club £44+VAT non-members Date: 16 July Time: 8am-10.30am Business Lunch Derby EVENT IN FOCUS: Cost: £10+VAT members, Location: Pentahotel, Pride Park Date: 29 July £30+VAT non-members GOLF TASTER DAY Time: Noon-2pm Brampton Brewery Social Evening Cost: £22+VAT members, Date: 8 August Location: Brampton Brewery & The £44+VAT non-members Time: 8.30am-2pm Rose & Crown, Chesterfield Business Lunch North Derbyshire Location: Cosby Golf Club, Leicester Date: 30 July Location: Chesterfield Football Club, Time: 5.30pm–8.30pm This Enterprising Women event provides an excellent Chesterfield Cost: £20+VAT members, Date: 2 September networking opportunity combined with a morning of £40+VAT non-members golf. Time: Noon-2pm Cost: £22+VAT members, It doesn’t matter whether you’re a novice golfer or a Summer BBQ £44+VAT non-members seasoned player, the day is designed to be “fun-for-all”. Location: Quorn Grange Hotel, The event will begin with welcome refreshments Leicestershire Business Lunch Nottingham and breakfast before starting the group golf tuition Date: 26 August Date: 4 September from Golf Pro James Herbert. Time: Noon–2.30pm Time: Noon-2pm Delegates will then take a short coffee break Cost: £24+VAT members, Cost: £22+VAT members, before hitting the course to play three holes. A two-course lunch will £44+VAT non-members £44+VAT non-members then be served in the Club House before the event draws to a close. Places are limited so booking early is essential. Exclusive Networking and Cricket The cost of attending this event is £25+VAT members / £40+VAT Event For more non-members. Location: Leicestershire County information about Cricket Club, Leicester upcoming Chamber If you require further information please call the events team on 01332 Date: 1 September events visit 851280. To book, email [email protected] or use the booking form at Time: 10.30am–3pm (option to www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events or www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events/7246/enterprising-women-golf-taster-day stay on and watch the get smart and use this QR code Cricket until 6pm)

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SKILLS

Skills shortage is a worry

Employers are more concerned about the impact of This is creating a ‘gig economy’, where workers a skills shortage on their business now than at any with the most in-demand skills can dictate where point in the past six years, according to research by and when they work and for whom. PwC. Jon Andrews, leader of PwC’s global people and CEOs are now finding it so difficult to find people organisation practice, said: “Despite rising business with the skills they need that three-quarters of the confidence and ambitious hiring plans, organisations Computer image of the new centre 1,300 interviewed by PwC rank skills shortage as the are struggling more than ever to find the right biggest threat to their business. This is a ten people with the right skills to achieve their growth £6.5m university percentage point jump from 2014 and is up from less plans. plans get go-ahead than half six years ago. “Organisations can no longer continue to recruit people as they’ve always Plans for a £6.5m state-of-the-art ‘Creating a skilled and adaptable done – they need to be looking in university centre in Mansfield have workforce should be a top new places, geographies and from taken a major step closer. priority’ new pools of talent.” Mansfield District Council’s planning committee has approved CEOs in Japan and South Africa are the most West Nottinghamshire College’s concerned – over nine in ten of those surveyed said ambitious proposals for a new and the availability of key skills was a threat to their larger building for the delivery of organisation’s growth prospects – closely followed its already-successful higher by China (90%), Hong Kong (85%), UK (84%) and education provision. Romania (84%). Councillors unanimously gave To overcome the problem, CEOs said they were the go ahead to the college’s long- increasing their use of contingent workers, part-time held plans to build a flagship employees, outsourcing and service agreements to university centre at its Derby Road fill the talent gaps. campus to widen participation in They were also looking for a wider mix of skills higher-level study. than in the past and searching for talent in different The college is set to replace an geographies, industries or demographic segments. existing single-storey building at Filling talent gaps is also a major driver of mergers the rear of the site with a modern and acquisitions activity, with over a quarter of CEOs three-storey facility. It is hoped saying that access to top talent is the main reason building work will start this for collaborating with other organisations. September.

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SKILLS

Apprentices Jake Underwood and Mark Mitchell deliver the giant bails to DCCC’s Simon Storey and Wayne Madsen Briggs duo step up to the wicket

Two Derby College apprentices are playing a key role in creating giant stumps that will symbolise Derbyshire County Cricket Club’s bid for the city to be a host for the 2017 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Mark Mitchell and Jake Underwood are both apprentices at Briggs of Burton, the Burton-on-Trent engineering company making the ‘This is a great project six-metre high stumps, bails and ball planned for the Pentagon Island. and something very Briggs are using their expertise in different to work on’ the design and manufacture of stainless steel drums for worldwide food and beverage, brewing, pharmaceutical and health and beauty markets to make the giant structure. Mark Mitchell, 20, from Derby, is a former engineering student at Derby College and is in the second year of his three-year apprenticeship with Briggs of Burton. He said: “I was really pleased when I was asked to get involved in this project and it will certainly be something different to put in my folder towards my qualifications. “I go past the Pentagon Island nearly every day so am looking forward to seeing the stumps, bails and ball there this summer.” Jake Underwood, also 20, from Burton, is studying for an HNC qualification as part of his apprenticeship with Briggs after completing engineering qualifications. He said: “This is a great project and something very different to work on. I hope it encourages everyone to get behind the bid for the world cup and it will be a great showcase for the company as well.” Gareth Cure, Briggs of Burton Managing Director, said: “The apprentices are an important part of the manufacturing team on this project which is very fitting considering the close links that Derby College has with our company and also as a fellow sponsor of Derbyshire County Cricket Club.”

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SKILLS

Derbyshire Apprenticeship Graduates Apprentices make the grade for business

A number of apprentices trained by the Chamber Training were among those taking part in the recent 2015 Derbyshire Apprenticeship Graduation. The event, which took place at the Roundhouse, in Derby, saw more than 100 apprentices receive graduation certificates in front of proud families and friends. Several Chamber apprentices were involved in the ceremony, which was a celebration of their hard work and achievements. They were Laura White and Alice Rodick, who both work for Chesterfield Orthodontics, Lauren Foye from CCS Media and Kimberley Dolman, who works for the Chamber at its Derby office. The Derbyshire ceremony followed a similar event in Nottinghamshire in April, which saw Chamber apprentices Jessica Spence and Emily Davies of Shine Dental, in Mansfield, and Ammie Henley, of Precedo, also in Mansfield, graduate. Training Advisers Katie Stubbs, Carlie Ashton and Nena Dubaic, along with Area Manager Catherine Spavold, were the team responsible for developing the Chamber apprentices. A host of local organisations supported both graduation ceremonies, including the local authorities, EMFEC – the East Midlands Further Education Council, training providers and the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership. Former Chamber Chief Executive George Cowcher, who attended the Derbyshire ceremony, said: “The Chamber is a huge advocate of

Chamber apprentice Kimberley Dolman

apprenticeships and it was good to see a number of the Chamber’s own apprentices among this year’s graduates. “Apprentices play a vital role in helping businesses to develop the skills, knowledge and experience they need to grow and prosper. They are a great way of equipping young people with the skills, attitudes and attributes they D2N2 Chairman need to have long and successful careers in business. Peter Richardson “Today's school-leavers are tomorrow’s business leaders, so it is crucial that greater emphasis is placed on apprenticeships to bridge the gap between education and the world of work.”

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SKILLS

Former Chamber Chief Executive George Cowcher at the Derbyshire graduation

Chamber staff and apprentices with winter paralympian Jade Etherington at the Nottinghamshire ceremony

All photos except the one directly above courtesy of Matthew Jones photography

D2N2 Chairman Peter Richardson said: “The graduate apprentices are a celebration of what employers and training providers can accomplish together when working with engaged, passionate young people and the apprenticeships they have just completed will give them a sound footing for them to deal with what happens next. “Global companies operating in this region spend a lot of time and money running apprenticeship programmes. They see it as a cost-effective way of getting the best people, to run their business in the most efficient and profitable manner.”

business network July/August 2015 43 Biz Network JULY AUG 2016_Chamberlink 06/07/2015 09:22 Page 44

PROPERTY City centre apartments let

FHP Living has let the newest luxury apartments in Nottingham city centre just weeks after being appointed to manage the scheme. Marketing Derby St Mary’s Court, located in the moves to city centre Lace Market area, offers 35 one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom Marketing Derby has moved to a apartments following the extensive new central location in the refurbishment of three former refurbished Riverside Chambers office buildings. complex. On appointment, FHP Living had For the past five years, the six apartments to let and did so in inward investment company has a matter of weeks. been located in the Derby offices of Sheryl Grundy, Head of Lettings law-firm Geldards, on Pride Park. at FHP Living, an expert in the city The move is part of Marketing centre market, believes schemes Derby’s commitment to creating a such as this are exactly what the vibrant heart to the city – research city needs. shows that central office occupiers She said: “One of the biggest encourage regeneration through challenges facing the city centre their spend in retail, leisure and lettings market is good quality entertainment. stock and that is exactly what these The team at estate agents FHP Living in Nottingham The company’s new office, on brand new apartments will offer to the top floor of Riverside people looking to rent in Chambers, incorporates a Derby Nottingham. The former office • FHP Living has found buyers for other two for several months. Showcase where the Derby story buildings have been extensively four properties that were ‘stuck’ on Associate Director Ian Marriott will be presented to investors. refurbished to offer really spacious the market. said: “We’re thrilled with our The showcase highlights the living accommodation which is The agents put their success in results. My team and I make sure city’s past, present and future as something you don’t always get in Clifton Village, West Bridgford and we always attend property the UK’s Capital for Innovation from the city centre.” Edwalton down to their viewings with the prospective housing the world’s first factory FHP, the estate agency’s sister “personalised and client-focused buyer, selling each and every through to being home to commercial property arm, has also approach to viewings”. benefit of the property and making employers such as Rolls-Royce and been appointed to act as residential Two of the properties had been the house feel like a home as soon Bombardier as well as a number of block managers for the scheme. on the market for over a year, the as they step inside.” top creative companies. John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby, said: “This move represents a new chapter in Marketing Derby’s story. By moving Unity Square comes together into the city centre we are leading from the front.” Sladen Estates and Peveril Riverside Chambers is part of Securities have bought the Derby City Council’s Connect Derby flagship Nottingham site Unity scheme. The £4m refurbished Square with the aim of driving former Magistrates’ Court has been forward its development to developed by Wilson Bowden. improve the city’s southern gateway. Rise in lending for Sladen and Peveril, one of the East Midlands’ most successful commercial property commercial development partnerships, have acquired the Commercial property lending rose key development site, opposite by more than 50% last year with Nottingham Railway Station, from lenders other than banks entering Peel Land and Property Group for the market, according to a new an undisclosed sum. report. The findings are contained in the ‘Unity Square will De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) Commercial Property put occupiers in the Lending Report. perfect place’ Used by law firms, lenders and banks around the world, the report The site, which is at the heart – compiled by DMU’s Bill Maxted – of the city’s burgeoning How the Unity Square development in Nottingham will look provides data to the Bank of regeneration zone, has planning England for its twice-yearly permission to provide up to professional occupiers looking for room to grow in Financial Stability Review. 460,000sq ft of grade A offices and a new hotel the right location are struggling to find suitable Mr Maxted, Senior Lecturer at with complementary retail and leisure uses accommodation in the city,” he said. DMU’s Leicester Business School, surrounding a new public square. “The area around the railway station has undergone has compiled the report twice a Nick Sladen, of Sladen Estates, said the deal was substantial investment with the transformation of the year since 1997. The independent proof the Nottingham economy was growing and that railway station into a transport interchange and study analyses data provided by the lack of new office development in the city meant exciting plans for the redevelopment of intu around 65 banks, insurance the time was right to proceed with the project. Broadmarsh. Unity Square will put occupiers in the companies, building societies and “We know the demand for space is out there but perfect place to take advantage of these investments.” asset management companies.

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LEGAL

Have you had a second warning? The Environment Agency has sent out second letters to organisations that qualify for the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS). The letters have been sent to directors at organisations the Environment Agency believes will meet the ESOS qualification threshold. The intention is to prompt organisations covered by Your vehicles must be safe ESOS – part of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive – to take Workplace vehicles account for about 50 deaths and There isn’t strict legislation on vehicle speeds but action now rather than wait 5,000 accidents a year. Assessing the risks associated firms have a duty to protect anyone on their site, until nearer the deadline. with vehicles is of paramount importance says including guests, contractors and employees. ESOS is a mandatory Chamber patron Qdos Consulting. This can be achieved by, for example: energy assessment scheme for By law, workplace vehicles must be safe and suitable • Controlling access to site organisations in the UK that for the task they are intended to complete. • Segregating pedestrians from work vehicles meet the qualification criteria. And it is the company’s responsibility to ensure it is • Controlling vehicle movements and speed Organisations that qualify properly tested, serviced and inspected. • Implementing barriers and for ESOS must carry out To ensure compliance, vehicle users should be made pedestrian zones assessments every four years to carry out a daily check to make sure brakes, lights • Using traffic lights to audit the energy used by and warning devices work properly, mirrors are • Have clearly defined reversing their buildings, industrial positioned correctly and equipment such as tail-lifts areas. processes and transport to works as they should. identify energy saving Regular inspections should be carried out by *Qdos Consulting provides the HR measures. Organisations must qualified maintenance staff based on time and mileage. and Employment Law services notify the Environment Agency All vehicle users should be trained and, where for Chamber members, by a set deadline that they possible, certified in the use of the vehicle. giving them 24/7 access to have complied with their ESOS A vehicle’s operating environment should be qualified specialists on any obligations. The deadline for assessed for suitability and speed controls should be employment law or human compliance is 5 December. imposed as appropriate. resource issue.

Mines Rescue Service Ltd When safety is an issue

Mines Rescue Service Ltd provides expert knowledge and associated health and safety related products, training and services to a wide range of private businesses and public sector organisations. A variety of courses are provided and each one is structured around the following core titles: • FIRST AID • BREATHING APPARATUS • CONFINED SPACE • HEALTH AND SAFETY • FIRE FIGHTING • SPECIALIST SERVICES

All courses are accredited by the appropriate awarding body and successful course delegates will receive competency certificates.

Leeming Lane South, Mansfield Woodhouse, Mansfield, Notts NG19 9AQ T: 01623 423777 • E: [email protected] www.minesrescue.com

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EBUSINESS

FREE FULL-DAY WORKSHOPS eBUSINESS CLUB As the leading provider of digital support in the East Midlands, the eBusiness Club offers workshops, funding advice and consultancy on all aspects of ICT and technology to improve business performance

Creating Video Content for the Web – Practical 21 July, Leicestershire

Social Media Academy 4, 11, 20 August, Leicestershire

Getting to Grips with Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) eBusiness Club manager Jon Egley. Right: Last year’s conference 5 August, Leicestershire

Blogging for Business 6 August, Derby Book now for 2015 Video Marketing Strategies for Business 12 August, Nottingham Getting Started with Google Digital Conference Analytics 14 August, Leicestershire Bookings are now being taken for the region’s biggest ICT and online marketing event of the year – the 2015 eBusiness Club trainer Liam Lally FREE eBIZ BYTE Digital Conference and Expo. BREAKFAST SEMINARS The Chamber’s eBusiness Club is delivering the An Introduction to Marketing event in partnership with Leicestershire County Council, Automation Software (MAS) in support of its Superfast Leicestershire project. 22 July, Nottingham It takes place at Leicester Tigers’ stadium, Welford Road, on 5 November and will form part of the High Speed Broadband for Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership’s Business – the options 2015 Leicester Business Festival. 5 August, Derby ‘The Chamber is urging people to To book your free place visit www.ebusinessclub.biz or call book early to avoid disappointment’ 0333 320 0333 ext 2064 As in previous years, demand is expected to be high Due to the expected high demand, there will also be a COMMERCIAL COURSES and with just 500 places available, the Chamber is series of seminars covering a range of business urging people to book early to avoid disappointment. technology and online marketing topics, giving delegates The keynote speaker will be Geoff Ramm, the creator unable to secure a conference place the opportunity to and author of ‘Celebrity Service’ and ‘OMG Marketing’, a visit the expo and take part in these sessions instead. multi-award winning speaker who has challenged and Diane Simpson, Director of Commercial Services at inspired audiences across the globe. the Chamber, said: “This year’s conference is set to be There will also be a presentation from Microsoft the biggest and best yet. We’re really pleased with the about the ‘Internet of Things’, an evolving online quality of speakers we have lined up and have some network of objects that will see the internet expand more exciting developments to announce in due course. Twitter for Business into places such as manufacturing floors, energy grids, 13 August, Leicester “ICT plays a major role in the vast majority of healthcare facilities, and transportation. businesses nowadays and this event is all about helping *Courses are charged at £249 + And eBusiness Club trainers Liam Lally and Ian people to harness the power of online technology to VAT for non-chamber members Lockwood will once again be delivering their hugely gain a competitive edge.” and £199 + VAT for chamber popular What’s New in Social and What’s New in members. Search sessions aimed at bringing delegates fully up- For more information, to reserve your conference to-date with all the very latest developments in Social place, or to register as a visitor for the expo and Media and Search Engine Optimisation. seminars, visit www.ebusinessclub.biz. The day will also include an expo area featuring 60 ICT suppliers wanting to showcase their business on of the East Midlands’ leading suppliers of ICT products, the day should call the eBusiness Club on 0333 320 For more services and solutions. 0333 or email [email protected] information about upcoming eBusiness Club events, visit www.ebusinessclub.biz or get smart and use this QR code

46 business network July/August 2015 Biz Network JULY AUG 2016_Chamberlink 06/07/2015 09:23 Page 47

FINANCE Pensions wake-up call is

Phil Sayers of Grant Thornton needed Report highlights stars of the region The nation needs a wake-up call over pensions freedoms, The East Midlands’ 200 fastest- according to the Nottingham and growing businesses have been District Pre-Retirement Council. unveiled in a report by the regional office of business and It says people “sleepwalk into People need to count the cost when it comes to pension freedoms retirement” and “spend more time financial advisers Grant Thornton. planning a fortnight’s holiday than of 55-plus savers gain access to Among items currently It is the region’s only dynamic, in they do their retirement”. pension lump sums, if ever the discussed at its meetings is the depth study of the growth, And the problem is only going nation needed a wake-up call, this new Flat Rate State Pension, performance and percentage rise in to worsen now that anyone over is it,” it said in a statement. which comes into effect next year the profitability of the East the age of 55 can take all their Partnering with the Pensions and will change the way pensions Midlands’ businesses by individual pension savings out of the pot Service of the Department for Work are calculated. market sector and county. without guidance on the longer- and Pensions, Nottingham and It is compiled on the basis of term implications of their actions. District Pre-Retirement Council runs The next course run by NDPRC is profit growth using the most recent “We need to raise awareness of courses to help soon-to-be and new on 20-22 July. Call 0115 922 3824 publicly available accounts. what is likely to be a growing retirees have a better understanding or visit www.dnprd.org.uk for The majority of the companies problem as hundreds of thousands or what it means to finish work. details. on the list are small and medium- sized businesses. Between them, the report’s 200 companies employ 139,000 people, have created over 14,250 net new Escalating auto-enrolment fines jobs over the past three years and increased workforce at an average A number of businesses which have failed to sign staff up to a workplace rate of 3.7 per cent per annum. pension scheme have been hit with escalating fines by the Pensions Phil Sayers, Partner in Grant regulator. Thornton’s Leicester office, said: Sam Davies, Partner at Dains, the Derby-based accountancy firm, is “The growth of the East Midlands warning other firms not to get caught out. Top 200 companies appears to Under current workplace pension rules, all employers with at least one have been achieved in a number of member of staff have to undertake certain duties, including enrolling those ways – notably diversification into who are eligible into a workplace pension scheme and contributing towards new markets, particularly new it. Under this process, known as auto-enrolment, businesses must meet geographic markets. certain requirements by a certain date, which is based upon the number of “Many companies indicated their people they employ. success over the last three years Those that miss the date are initially sent a statutory notice reminding was also due in part to taking them to comply however, those which persistently and deliberately difficult decisions to invest in items refuse to comply, or which breach workplace pension rules, face a fixed such as staff and R&D during the penalty notice of £400. Failure to pay the fixed penalty notice could lead to recession, which are now paying a series of escalating fines, with a prescribed daily rate of £50 to £10,000, off.” depending on the number of staff the business employs. Sam said: “So far the Pensions Regulator has handed out escalating The report was compiled in penalty notices to only four firms, but this number is likely to increase as conjunction with the CBI and is more staging dates pass.” available online at bit.ly/1S1z0Kz

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MOTORING Peugeot’s new gladiator

In a confused motoring world, NICK JONES tests a new gladiator in the arena

Have a look at the motors market today and what’s trending is the crossover… no, it’s the hybrid… or the plug-in electric… and… In all honesty, they all are. And the nation’s love affair with diesel is both the hottest thing and the coldest thing around, depending on what you choose to read. Smaller, turbo-powered petrol engines are now giving diesel-like economy with diesels giving petrol- like performance and not sounding like tractors. The truth, perhaps more than ever before, is that there appears to be no clear direction for car makers to follow. Whatever they build will appeal to someone and be repulsive to others. Was it always thus? The Peugeot 508 RXH is a ‘genuine go anywhere family estate’ Into this unruly arena steps a new gladiator from an unlikely source – the 508 RXH from Peugeot. And what it brings to the fight will have some of the ‘Has steering wheel-mounted established contenders looking long and hard in their paddles if you want to flick up FACTFILE rear view mirrors. and down the ratios – F1-style’ This is a genuine go anywhere family estate which MODEL: Peugeot 508RXH combines one of Peugeot’s renowned diesel engines to drive the front wheels with state-of-the-art electric With stop/start technology, the RXH can return up to PRICE: £30,295 technology to drive the rear – a 4x4 Jim, but not as we 69mpg. know it. So it’s a lead-sledge? Au contraire, as the French car ENGINE: 2.0 litre diesel And what’s it up against? Audi’s Allroad, Volvo’s maker might say. The 2.0-litre diesel in the front stirs XC70 and their ilk. But being a Peugeot, it doesn’t carry 163 chevaux and the electric motors add a further 37, PERFORMANCE: the premium cars’ price tags, which means it will have combining to give 200bhp. 0-60mph 9.5 seconds a lot of appeal to the more-budget, less badge- The 508 RXH powers past 60mph from a standing – top speed 130+mph conscious driver. start in 9.5 seconds on the way to a top speed of The benefit-in-kind and road tax will also appeal to 130+mph. CO2 EMISSIONS: 104g/km this sector, the former being just 16% and no three per It comes with an automatic gearbox but has steering cent diesel levy, and the latter being zip, zilch, nada for wheel-mounted paddles if you want to flick up and FUEL CONSUMPTION: the first year and just £20 thereafter because the down the ratios – F1-style. 69mpg achievable emissions are a paltry 104g/km. Having the batteries aboard compromises the boot

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MOTORING

Toyota UK delivers double success

Toyota Manufacturing UK was set a up to nine new model launches challenge unprecedented outside since Burnaston came on stream in Japan… build and deliver two new 1992, with a similar number of models simultaneously. ‘minor change’ programmes as well.” But the Burnaston car maker met As well as the people skills, new the task and last month launched equipment and ways of working side-by-side production of new had to be put in place throughout Auris and Avensis models. the plant. Although planning for the new Success also relied on TMUK’s cars started in 2013, production many suppliers all being ready to went from zero to 800 cars a day supply the necessary number of over just a ten day period. new parts, all validated for quality The achievement was made and performance, right on time. more complex by that fact that With start of production secure, both models and all versions are the focus now moves to the new built – from welding shop to final models reaching the road. quality checks – on a single The new Avensis is on sale now, production line. with deliveries already rolling out. Jon Corpe, TMUK’s Project Order books for the new Auris Manager, said: “Normally, as opened on 1 July. production of an outgoing model slows down, the build of the new Global magazine Newsweek has one takes over on the line to named Toyota as one of the compensate, so the number of cars world’s greenest companies. leaving the plant is fairly consistent. The car maker climbed 57 places In this case, production of both to 35th in the journal’s Global 500 models came to an end at the rankings and took second place in same time. We had to be sure we the US automotive listings. could meet global demand for the Companies were scored against new cars immediately.” their industry peers on each of Tony Walker, TMUK Deputy eight metrics, including energy, Managing Director, said: “Our water and waste levels. people are very experienced, the “We are proud to be recognised average length of service is 12 years, as one of the world’s greenest so they were absolutely ready to companies,” said Jim Lentz, Toyota take on something like this. Motor North America Chief “New Auris and Avensis take us Executive Officer. The contemporary interior of the 508 RHX 130 years a Wanderer space slightly – down from 510 litres to 425 but fold the seats flat (they also do 60/40) and it soars to 1,440 litres and there is an Last month marked 130 years extra under-floor space for items you might want to conceal. since the world’s first purpose- If the loss of the boot-space would be a deal-breaker, you can built leisure touring caravan, have just a two-wheel drive basic diesel offering 180bhp – but why The Wanderer, took to the road. would you? Owned by Victorian author, Dr Buy the hybrid, let the front and rear ends talk to each other and William Gordon Stables, The Wanderer caravan travelled deliver their power seamlessly. It’s an easy, straightforward bit of 1,400 miles during the summer technology that gives any Peugeot car the capability of running of 1885. this system. It was towed by two horses I think the 508 has rugged good looks but that shape remains from Twyford, Berkshire, to The original Wanderer caravan unmistakingly Peugeot estate and for me that’s a good thing. Inverness, from where the caravan The fun starts at just £30,295 for the 2WD 180bhp version. The returned to London by rail before continuing its journey along the South diesel Hybrid4 starts at £34,645, so it’s hardly inexpensive - Coast, reaching as far as Lymington, in the New Forest. technology like this rarely is. But the lower tax demands will offset This caravan was bequeathed to The Caravan Club by the daughter of your initial investment and don’t forget those frugal running costs. Dr William Gordon Stables in the 1960s. The Volvo XC70 with all-wheel drive capability starts at £35,000 “William Gordon Stables was a true adventurer, with a pioneering spirit while the Audi Allroad range starts at £32,640. and a genuine appreciation of the great outdoors and the benefits the An all-wheel-drive go anywhere eco-friendly estate from Peugeot? natural world brings to mind and body,” said Nick Lomas, Director General Yes, it’s here and it’s called the 508 RXH. A very clever piece of kit. of the Caravan Club.

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COMMENT THE LAST WORD

LIZ FOTHERGILL CBE, Chamber President, on the issues that are worth talking about

IT’S PARTY TIME, JUST NOT HERE CONGRATULATIONS IAN Back in the 1980s, the LibDems, then the Social Democrats, I was delighted to hear my dear friend and fellow board staged their party conference one year at various member Ian Morgan was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s destinations around the country. For two days of that week Birthday Honours List for his services to public transport. they were in Derby. Ian has spent 42 years in the bus industry and is the Before and since then the three main parties have current Deputy Chairman of Wellglade Group, the UK’s shunned the East Midlands, preferring the bright lights of largest independently-owned bus operator. the seaside or the glamour of Manchester or Birmingham. He is Chairman of the Confederation of Passenger Why? What is it that draws the party faithful mostly to Transport UK, the bus and coach industry’s trade the extremes of the country’s borders rather than its association, a long-standing Chamber board director and heartland? past-President, he sits on the board of the D2N2 Local Surely it would be easier for most of them to get to Enterprise Partnership, is Chairman of the East Nottingham, Derby or Leicester, with each of those cities’ Staffordshire Cricket Development Group and Vice- excellent road, rail and air links. President of Burton Hockey Club. This year, yet again, the party conferences will shun the I don’t know how he’ll find the time to collect his award. country’s ‘Engine for Growth’ and most of its ‘Northern Powerhouse’. GOOD LUCK IN RETIREMENT JOHN Are we being ignored? Is this the manifestation of a Another good friend of mine, fellow Chamber board Westminster perception that we can’t deliver tourism and member, Professor John Coyne, is retiring from his post as conferencing? Or are we simply not selling ourselves hard Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby and I am enough? delighted for him. Perhaps the time has come to put all differences aside He has had a long and distinguished career in academia, and work together to put the East Midlands firmly on the dedicating much of his time to forging links between map as THE region of choice. education and business. He is a well-known and well-respected figure in academia. MY FEARS OVER THE CHANCELLOR’S SPEECH His retirement is definitely academia’s loss but I’m glad that At the time you’re reading this, George Osborne, the he is continuing to serve as a director of the Chamber. Chancellor of the Exchequer, will have made his 8 July emergency statement. But I’m writing this before he sets BEST WISHES GEORGE out the Conservatives’ policies for the year, and more, I’d like to place on the record the Chamber’s sincere ahead. gratitude and thanks to former Chief Executive George I have fears that, with a clear mandate, the Conservatives Cowcher, who stood down to pursue new opportunities on could hit us with a raft of austerity measures that will make the day Business Network went to press, for his tireless the past few years seem like Easy Street. dedication to and passion for the Chamber and local I sincerely hope they won’t. I don’t want to see unrest on business during his time in the role. our streets as the disaffected and disadvantaged rebel As Chief Executive, George oversaw the significant against swingeing cuts that will see their standards of living expansion of the Chamber, which geographically, now driven into further decline. encompasses three cities and counties and has I don’t want to see a Greek-style collapse and UK plc consolidated its position as the second-largest Chamber in AGREE OR floundering and foundering in an attempt to clear the debt the UK. DISAGREE? too quickly. Yes, there are further hard times ahead, but He also played an instrumental role in establishing the Join the debate they don’t need to be brutal – growth, not austerity, should D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership and has been a by following be his guiding principle. tremendous advocate for business in the East Midlands on @EMChamberNews I’m hoping that by the time you read this we will all be the local, regional and national stage. and Tweet using the breathing a sigh of relief that the steel fist wore a velvet He leaves the Chamber bigger, stronger and of greater hashtag #LastWord glove. value to its members and we wish him well for the future.

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