April 2018 April 2018

Insight 1 April 2018 April 2018 New CEO appointed at FDR Law ARRINGTON basaed full service law firm, FDR Law has appointed WMark Lockett as CEO following the departure of Oliver Burton last December. Lockett, with over 18 years’ Stockton Heath. experience in the legal sector joins FDR Law from a private On his move to FDR Lockett said: “I consultancy where he worked with am joining FDR Law at an exciting law firms advising on strategic time and am very much looking requirements and helping them forward to developing and growing improve efficiency operationally. the business” He has previously held senior Commenting on his appointment, management roles at Foot Anstey FDR Law Chairman Charles Agar LLP, Mills & Reeve and George said: “We are delighted to welcome Davies Solicitors LLP. Mark to the business, we were He will work closely with the impressed with his considerable partnership to further develop depth of experience and we are and execute the firm’s business looking forward to utilising his and growth strategy and his expertise to develop our business responsibilities will include all further. We are confident he will operations, projects, quality and be a tremendous asset to FDR Law compliance and on-site business and his appointment is testament functions supporting the offices to our commitment to growing the in , and practice”

The Commonwealth - A Force for Good! by Tricia Francis, Director, Tomorrow The World Ltd

As part of the Commonwealth the Commonwealth (this includes English for communication with enthusiasm for the Commonwealth is Day celebration on 12th March, The Gambia who rejoined in February foreigners, not forgetting the strong somewhat tempered by the fact they Warrington Chamber took part this year) representing 2.4 billion diaspora communities, then perhaps don’t really quite understand why in the “How to Trade with the citizens and 20% of global trade. there is a case to look at currently Britain can be so vague about it…this Commonwealth” event at UK-Commonwealth trade reached a under-utilised trade potential with is a force for good’. Racecourse, organised by the peak of US$ 120 billion in 2012, just Commonwealth countries. & Warrington and Liverpool before the global trade slowdown. For some further reading, especially City Region Local Enterprise Some Commonwealth countries have Why not have a closer look at if you like trade stats, see: Partnerships. The event was also a higher reliance on trade with the each Commonwealth country as a an opportunity to launch the UK than others, for example, 56% potential trading partner, and, whilst Brexit and Commonwealth Trade, combined Merseyside and Cheshire of Botswana’s exports are to the UK, we wait for post-Brexit bilateral Commonwealth Trade Policy Briefing, Commonwealth Association and mainly beef and diamonds; almost deals to evolve, let’s get involved November 2016; all of St Lucia’s banana exports are with the diaspora and help build included a visit by Prince Edward, Who Does the UK Trade With, Office Earl of Wessex. destined for the UK and Belize and connections now. The recently Fiji fulfil the majority of our sweet combined Merseyside and Cheshire for National Statistics, 3 January 2018 With companies always looking for tooth demands for sugar. From Commonwealth Association may be -https://visual.ons.gov.uk/uk-trade- new international trade opportunities, a UK perspective, the Office for one such organisation to consider. partners/; over 300 delegates attended to hear National Statistics gives our top five The Commonwealth - http:// presentations from Commonwealth As Prince Edward highlighed at the Commonwealth export markets in Chester event, outside the UK, “the thecommonwealth.org/ Trade Commissioners, Export Support 2016 as Australia (£8.6bn), Canada Organisations and local businesses (£8.3bn) Singapore (£7.2bn), India keen to tell of their sales experience (£5.7bn) and South Africa (£4.3bn). A with Commonwealth markets. These collective “Other Africa” (not North) included -based ice-cream van actually comes in above Singapore at manufacturers, Whitby Morrison, £7.6bn and a good proportion of this Knowsley-based power generation will be Commonwealth countries, solutions providers, Clarke Energy, such as Nigeria (£2.1bn). A trade and Warrington’s very own, four- surplus for the UK is derived from all time Queen’s Award for Enterprise of these apart from India. winner, ICC Solutions, a global leader in the provision of EMV (Chip So why else do they say we should & PIN) test and certification tools. focus on increasing trade with the Students from Great Sankey High Commonwealth? It isn’t a formal School, Warrington also attended trading bloc and we can’t just to learn more about international expect to sell more because we are trade and the support available to a Commonwealth member. Or can UK businesses. Placing third amongst we? Standard economic models schools across the North of England look at the propensity of countries in a 2017 ‘Exporting Excellence’ pilot to trade with each other based on scheme for a new element within size of economy, distance apart, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award common borders and language etc. Skills Section, their enthusiasm for Looking at this voluntary association connecting with overseas markets is of 53 countries spanning the globe, still very much alive. a large question mark is thus bound to appear in your mind. However, a So let’s just recap on the 2015 study shows that, when bilateral Commonwealth countries and partners are both Commonwealth what they offer in terms of trade members, they tend to trade, on opportunities, as, with the Gold average, 20 per cent more and Coast Commonwealth Games set to generate 10 per cent more foreign start on 4th April, it would be good direct investment flows. This so- to know more than the weightlifting called “Commonwealth Advantage” prowess of Nauru and Tuvalu or recall implies bilateral trading costs the memorable rugby sevens debut between Commonwealth partners performance by Niue (population are, on average, 19 percent lower than 1,190) at the 2002 Manchester those in other country pairings. Add Commonwealth Games. into the equation historic ties, long- established trading relations, similar There are currently 53 members of legal system, predominant use of 2 Insight April 2018 April 2018 From the Chief Executive Colin Daniels March 2017 Monthly Economic Review (Based on February 2017 data releases) Economic growth in Q4 revised Overall the latest GDP estimate output rose by 0.2% in Q4 up up to 0.7% up from the previous confirms that the UK economy from the previous estimate enjoyed a solid end to 2016. of 0.1%. The service sector estimate of 0.6% and is the remains the main driver of UK fastest rate of growth since Q4 The upward revision was driven GDP growth with output from 2015 in annual terms. by manufacturing sector output the sector growing by 0.8% in growing more strongly than Q4 and accounting for 80% of UK GDP was up by 2.0% in Q4. previous expected Construction the growth recorded. UK Trade Deficit The UK Trade deficit narrowed over the 12 months according The value of exports rose by Separately ONS data on by a third last year. to the Office for National 12pc to reach £68bn in 2017 production industries including Statistics. The shift followed manufacturing offered some surpassing the growth in Compared to 2016 the gap upward revisions to export positive signs. Manufacturing between imports and exports levels for the final three months imports which rose by 9pc to recorded its ninth consecutive reduced by £12.4bn to £28.3bn of last year. £55bn. month of growth in January. UK Growth Once again the “experts” have got it wrong with The Office for Budget Growth in the UK’s dominant services industry has increased in the Responsibility having to make a u turn as it increases its forecast for last three months at the fastest pace since November 2015 according growth just months after growth was suddenly downgraded strong to a new CBI survey. numbers mean the economists expect the watchdog to reverse some of that gloom, a move that would shrink the deficit and deliver a Meanwhile confidence among businesses and professional services is £15bn windfall to the Chancellor. growing with a further pickup anticipated in the coming three months. The Alpha Group is coming to Warrington! t’s lonely at the top... The buck stops here.... the latter is a quote from The Alpha Group is coming to promise you will double the value IFDR, I’m not sure about the first one.. but both are very true for the Warrington! of your business in 2-3 years of CEO or owner of a smaller SME business. working with us, and dominate Successfully piloted for three years your niche - and we’ve never failed Who helps you? Who has had and complete the actions you ‘said’ in Ringwood, Hampshire, and yet! experience of ‘your’ problems, at were good, and that you were going rolling now out globally, we are an Call Alan Higham on 0795 636 8899 your level, that you can go to for to execute? exclusive organisation for just 20 for more details and an invitation to help, advice .... and who you can, elite, local, business people who are critically, trust? A great Business Because its dead easy, when you’re our Discovery Day or email alan. 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Chance to sponsor Insight magazine NEW MEMBER An opportunity has arisen for a sponsor of the Chamber Magazine Thompson Training and Development which is issued to all Chamber Members monthly and as a marketing Mrs Gilly Thompson – Director tool to recruit members. 25 Lacey Avenue, , Cheshire, SK9 4BB Tel: 07966 693959 If you are interested please contact Colin Daniels at the Chamber Web: www.thompsontrainingltd.co.uk 01925-715150. Description: Training & Development

International Business Centre President: Nigel Schofield Delta Crescent Chief Executive: Colin Daniels Westbrook, Warrington Cheshire WA5 7WQ International Trade Advisor: Tricia Francis Office Manager: Gail McGough Registered in England No. 2964304 Tel: 01925 715150 • Fax: 01925 715159 Administration: Charlene Haslam Members of Chambers of Commerce North West. [email protected] Editor / Group PR: Gary Skentelbery Members of Cheshire Chambers Enterprises Limited www.warrington-chamber.co.uk Design / Production: Paul Walker The views expressed by correspondents and contributors to this magazine are not necessarily those of the Warrington Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Whilst our best endeavours have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine, we do not accept liability for any inaccuracy or omission contained therein. Colin Daniels, Chief Executive

Insight 3 April 2018 April 2018 Warrington & Vale Royal College Estate Review arrington & Vale Royal College is set to re-shape the college estate Wand operational aspects of the organisation. The Winwick Road campus in Warrington is the largest in the college’s estate portfolio and will continue to thrive. The Warrington campus is absolutely central to the college strategy for growth.

Since the merger between response to the government’s Warrington Collegiate and Mid Industrial Strategy. This, in turn, Cheshire College, the college has will facilitate investment in been committed to improving the specialist, ‘best in class’ facilities learning experience for students and resources to meet and exceed across all its campuses whilst industry standards and provide the carefully monitoring current and best possible learning experience. prospective student recruitment, This is part of our strategy to re- and changes to income and shape the Vale Royal aspect of the costs. Whilst significant work has college’s operation and estate, with been undertaken to market the a focus on ”. curriculum, the college’s income is set to reduce and a review of the “In keeping with the aims of the college’s estate has shown that the area based review, we will ensure Hartford campus is seriously under- that Warrington & Vale Royal utilised. College is financially sustainable and readily able to respond to Guided by the principles of best any challenges ahead, meeting value for money and an enhanced economic and skills priorities and learning experience, the Board the needs of the communities we of Corporation at the college has serve, both now and in the future. resolved to de-commission the Above all we aim to provide an majority of the Hartford campus excellent learning experience and from September 2018, preserving a breadth of provision across the priority provision in engineering college estate, providing a range and advanced manufacturing. of clear progression routes at all Displaced curriculum currently levels, from Entry upwards, into HR work experience required based at Hartford will be re-located positive destinations, higher level to our state of the art campuses in study and/or fulfilling careers”. My name is Sheena Stuart, I am 40 years old, currently working as a Winsford - in the vast majority of Receptionist. “We have commenced a cases - or Warrington, which will consultation with staff and trade I had a little girl two years ago and decided I wanted a career rather than continue to be our key site. unions about these proposals to a job and most of all to be a role model to her. A college spokesperson said: achieve a strong and sustainable The company I work for A. Schulman Limited kindly agreed to sponsor future for the college and to ensure “As stated in our original merger me and I am almost at the end of my Level 3 CIPD qualification looking that staffing levels are appropriate. to gain practical skills within an HR department. proposal, we committed to the 56 full time equivalents (FTE) out consolidation of our estate and in- of 390 FTE are at risk but wherever I am excited to begin my career and would appreciate the opportunity to parallel, curriculum specialisation possible, volunteers for redundancy gain some experience within an HR department on a voluntary basis for to match the Local Enterprise from the affected employees will one week at your convenience. You can contact me at sheena.stuart@ Partnership’s strategic economic be sought to mitigate the need for aschulman.com priorities and raise skill levels in compulsory redundancies”. Charlotte over the moon after being named joint apprentice of the year CHAMBER members Rock Oil are I would recommend an Hewitt added: “Rock Oil has seen at the awards was exceptional delighted to announce Charlotte apprenticeship to any young first-hand the huge difference that and it’s refreshing to see so many Thompson was the joint winner person who wants to progress their Apprenticeships can make both to businesses supporting the future. of the award for apprentice of the career path and gain a qualification young people and to the businesses We’re delighted that Charlotte has year at the Cheshire High Sheriff’s in their chosen field. Awards for Enterprise recently. that they work in. The calibre of been recognised at this level and Rock Oil Managing Director Greg all of the shortlisted apprentices are extremely proud of her.” The event was held on March 22 at Chester Racecourse and supported by the University of Chester. To win the award was both unexpected and gratifying but one fully deserved after such a fantastic start to her Rock Oil career. Charlotte joined the team some 18 months ago and has since become an integral member of the internal administration team, working well with her peers and offering superb service to the Rock Oil customer base. Her work ethic and positivity is a credit to her and we look forward to seeing her develop her career with us in the coming years. Charlotte said: “I am over the moon to have won this award and appreciate all of the help and support from my colleagues at Rock Oil. Apprenticeships are a great way to develop skills and knowledge within the working environment. 4 Insight April 2018 April 2018 Celebrating 50 years making and breaking news arington-worldwide’s publishers Orbit News ltd is celebrating a particular - Colin and Wendy have at local football club, Warrington Wgolden year of making and breaking news in the town. since gone on to become special Town, serving as Chairman for friends and we’re incredibly proud several years before retiring as a Hannah also recently joining the Founded by David Skentelbery in to champion the charity and all director last year. 1968, and now led by David’s son business to focus on digital content. the amazing work they do in our Gary, Orbit News originally set up as 50th year,” said Gary, who is now As well as a series of fundraising a news agency breaking exclusives “News is in the Skentelbery DNA, the Peace Foundation’s longest it’s what we’ve always done in the challenges throughout 2018, Orbit for the major national newspapers serving patron. He also sits on News is sponsoring the Warrington and continues to break news online 50 years since Orbit News opened the board of the town’s Chamber Business Awards and will be giving via a daily online newspaper which its doors for the first time,” added of Commerce and Warrington runs alongside a range of free, Gary. Disability Partnership. back through a range of events monthly magazines read by more and activities to support for young To mark the company’s 50th He also spent 10 years at the board people and businesses in the town. than 100,000 people every month, anniversary, Gary will be raising including its flagship publication Warrington Worldwide. funds for the Tim Parry Jonathan Ball Peace Foundation through a David – now aged 80 - stills series of charity fundraising events, works hand-in-hand with Gary on including 10k run and 24-hour Orbit News’ online and in print tennis marathon later this year. publications, which include Life, Village Life (serving Stockton This year sees the 25th anniversary Heath, Grappenhall, Appleton of the Warrington bombing, which and High Legh), Life, claimed the lives of the two young Frodsham Life and Lifestyle. boys. It is something incredibly close to the heart of Gary. “My father is an incredible man and, despite being 80, he continues to “I remember the day vividly,” he enjoy the cut and thrust of making said. “I was heading to play in a and breaking news for our online football match– so I was dressed and offline publications,” said Gary, in my goalkeeper kit – when I who launched the magazine arm of received the call into Orbit News the company in 1999 withformer from a national newspaper asking Warrington Mercury colleague Paul us to get to Bridge Street. I rushed Walker, who heads up production. to the scene, walking through the back streets and stepped straight In the tradition of many family into where the bomb had gone off. businesses, David and Gary have It was a scene I will never forget received incredible support from their wives Patricia and Janet in “Despite all the pain the town accounts, with Gary’s daughter went through – and the families in

LJLA sets out plans for growth through to 2030 Liverpool John Lennon Airport focus on the passenger experience, commented, “Since investing in the Airport going forward in order (LJLA) has launched its Strategic industry leading performance the business over 20 years ago, the to deliver continued success.” Vision to 2030 setting out how and a continued investment in its Peel Group have always believed in it intends to take the business employees, Liverpool intends to be this Airport’s tremendous potential New Airport CEO John Irving forward, bringing further benefits the Airport the region loves. and today sees the launch of the commented, “Prior to joining the for the Liverpool City Region, the latest chapter in what has been a Airport Company I was well aware North West and North Wales. Building upon its recent success, of Liverpool’s recent success story tremendous success story for the and the excellent reputation it has the Airport has ambitious plans to Airport and the region. This strategy incorporates the serve more destinations including within the aviation industry. Airport Master Plan to 2050 which long haul, with passenger forecasts Liverpool is the Faster, Easier, in turn sets out the potential indicating the potential to grow The Peel Group’s continued Friendlier Airport of choice for investment in the Airport has seen future infrastructure developments passenger numbers to 7.8 million passengers from across the region, required to deliver the forecast by 2030. These increases will Liverpool become one of the UK’s millions of whom now choose to stand-out regional airports. By expansion of the business require a planned investment of take advantage of flying from an and follows last year’s public around £100m over the next 10 working with stakeholders from Airport with a relaxed, hassle free across the region to implement consultation of the draft Airport years, in a proposed expansion of environment and best in class Master Plan. the terminal building, additional our latest strategic vision, there operational performance. However is every reason to believe that car parking, passenger facilities we cannot afford to stand still in Liverpool is one of the UK’s including hotels, retail, food and by building on our success, this major regional airports and plays what remains a very challenging growth can continue, bringing drink services and a potential economic and competitive an important role both as an extension of the runway. tremendous economic benefits for international gateway and as a environment, which is why we the City Region, the North West and major driver of the local economy. There is also significant potential have set out our strategic vision for beyond.” It is already a large local employer to grow cargo operations at LJLA, in its own right and through its to attract specialist aviation supply chain, and enhances the businesses and to develop a cluster competitiveness of business across of related high quality employment the region by providing access opportunities. to international markets and supporting inbound travel. The increase in passenger throughput and investments in the The Airport has seen growth Airport’s physical infrastructure in passenger numbers of over has a potential to increase total 25% since 2014 with 5 million annual GVA impact to £625 million, passengers per year now choosing and will enable it to support over to use Liverpool and has the 12,000 jobs across the City Region potential to further enhance its by 2030, benefitting the wider economic and social impact across Northern Powerhouse too. the region. Increased employment both on The Strategic Vision and Master site and within the Liverpool City Plan launched today sets out Region also has the potential to Liverpool John Lennon Airport’s generate around £270m every year offer to collaborate with key in additional GVA through non- stakeholders across the region to aviation development. help realise the Airport’s potential and maximise its benefits. With a Robert Hough, Airport Chairman Insight 5 April 2018 April 2018 Drone Technology touches down at Blue Whale Media Ltd lue Whale Media Ltd is excited to announce recent developments at are underperforming due to an and react to current demand within Bthe web design and media agency in the way of drone technology. unwillingness to take the plunge the technology marketspace. Soon the agency will be providing businesses with 5.2K resolution drone into the online world. Blue Whale footage courtesy of the Inspire 2 company drone. Media seeks to rectify this, with You can expect even more new a simplistic and transparent and innovative services to become Currently, the in house Graphic media channels and recent blogs approach to web design and digital available in the future, so be sure to Designer Lewis Jarvis is undergoing regarding drone technology. marketing that could reassure even keep up to date with the a formal qualification to be a the greatest of technophobes. In based technology agency. certified commercial drone pilot. Some of the businesses include essence, we want to make well The qualification is recognised golf courses and leisure centres, designed websites, effective digital If you wish to speak to the agency by the CAA (Civil Aviation caravan parks, property developers marketing and SEO accessible yourself about a potential project, Authority) and it an absolute amongst many more. to the masses, not just the few you can reach them by calling: 01925 552050 or by sending an must for businesses wanting to They feel however, that many with large budgets and national take advantage of the remarkable sized businesses’’. Gary Sweeney. email to: hello@bluewhalemedia. businesses can certainly benefit co.uk. Blue Whale Media offer technology. from high quality, areal footage Managing Director at Blue Whale Media. services relating to web design, ‘‘I am looking forward to finally which makes the perfect basis for web development, graphic design, getting the drone off the ground promotional videos or advertising The recent branch into drone content and copy writing, drone for its first commercial flight and campaigns. technology is an example of how technology, animation and much capturing footage on behalf of the agency continues to develop more. clients. The training to become Prior to now, Blue Whale Media a commercial drone pilot is not has built a reputation within the easy and currently takes up a community of Warrington for their considerable amount of my time. work with local businesses. They Test runs and practice flights are known for creating bespoke with the Inspire 2 and the Parrot websites as well as designing and have given me a huge amount of implementing online marketing confidence in my growing ability strategies for small to medium and I believe that this new dynamic sized businesses that are seeking to the business has the potential to establish or develop their online to be massively successful’’ Lewis presence. Jarvis. In house Graphic Designer and training Drone Pilot at Blue ‘’we are living in the digital age, Whale Media. businesses just like most aspects of modern life, are moving towards The up and coming service of digital representation rather than drone commercial flight footage traditional methods. Having a has already begun to attract website is a necessity if you want attention, with several local to truly compete within your businesses enquiring after seeing industry. People however, are posts on Blue Whale Media’s social missing out and their businesses

VAT ruling on Nesquik fruit-flavoured powders provides food for thought With Nestlé recently losing its rather because it contains cocoa zero-rated but a chocolate digestive, Vegetable crisps (which are neither appeal in relation to the VAT which is zero-rated as a food. The which also has chocolate covering potato or cereal) are zero-rated, as treatment of Nesquik fruit Upper Tier Tribunal examined on the top, is standard rated. Why are Twiglets and Mini Cheddars. flavoured powders, it has got Alison the law but dismissed the appeal. is this? Well a Jaffa Cake is, as the Salted or roasted nuts are standard Birch, Director of VAT at Mitchell Therefore, we have a situation name would suggest, a cake which is rated but nuts in their shells are Charlesworth thinking about the where we have 3 similar products zero-rated (regardless of how much zero-rated. This in theory makes weird and wonderful subject of VAT and two are subject to VAT but one chocolate is on the cake). A biscuit it quite straightforward (although and food. is not. is only zero-rated if it is not partly pistachio nuts are salted even or wholly covered in chocolate and when they are in their shells) but Nestlé argued that as the flavoured So what other interesting rules are as a chocolate digestive is partly there is the added complication powders are to encourage the there? covered in chocolate, it does not that if these products are held out drinking of milk, they should be qualify for zero-rating. So how for sale for home baking then they zero-rated. The chocolate powder Most people are aware of the Jaffa much chocolate is required to Cake situation (this even had a can still be zero-rated. This point is already zero-rated but this has be partly covered in chocolate? also applies to sweetened dried nothing to do with the fact that mention on Coronation Street It is accepted that a biscuit with is linked to the drinking of milk; many years ago). A Jaffa Cake is fruit which is standard rated when only a few decorative dots (e.g. held out for snacking but if it is held a gingerbread man) is not partly out for sale for snacking and home covered and therefore zero-rated baking, then it will be zero-rated. and a chocolate chip cookie which could contain as much chocolate Confused? Understandably so. as a chocolate digestive is also The VAT liability of food items zero rated because it isn’t covered can be complicated and Mitchell in chocolate, just contains it. Charlesworth’s VAT team has Additionally, if the biscuit is covered significant experience of reviewing in caramel or some product not product listings to determine similar in taste and appearance to the correct VAT rates which in chocolate, it can qualify for zero- numerous occasions has resulted in rating. VAT reclaims. The team has worked with supermarkets, pharmacies Snacks seem to be the main area of and coffee shops. With the latter confusion and we discuss below the it’s not just because of the cakes; issues with crisps, nuts and other it’s about the drinks too because if items for snacking. Crisps made they sell a cold, milk based drink to mostly from potato are standard be taken away these are zero-rated. rated but crisps made from cereals If it doesn’t contain milk, is hot or can be zero-rated unless the cereals doesn’t leave the premises then it is are ‘swollen’. For example, tortilla standard rated. chips are zero-rated as they are made from corn and not swollen Determining whether you are but monster munch which are charging the correct rate of VAT on also made of corn are standard the products you sell can sometimes rated because they are swollen. require additional support. 6 Insight April 2018 April 2018 Birchwood Park celebrates 20th anniversary with record occupancy

eading North West business destination, Birchwood Park, is Existing amenities onsite include planning consent on the park and Lcelebrating its 20th anniversary with a record occupancy level of 96 conference, meeting and event space we expect to continue our growth per cent. at The Centre, a fully equipped gym, a so we can accommodate even purpose-built nursery, and a number more businesses in the years to Today marks 20 years since MEPC’s To celebrate the 20th anniversary, the of restaurant and drink outlets across come. Wellbeing will continue to be purchase of Birchwood Technology park has created a series of special the park. a leading focus for us – we firmly Park in 1998. Since then, the park events over the coming months, believe that happier staff are more (now owned by Warrington Borough commencing today with the opening Martin continued: “Looking ahead, productive and will be doing all we Council) has almost tripled in size, of ‘The Woodshed’ café located we have over 800,000 sq ft of can to facilitate the best working providing 1.1million sq ft of office at the award-winning Bridgewater development space with outlined environment for our occupiers.” and warehouse space. A total of 33 Place development. The grab-and- new buildings have been developed go service will offer Starbucks – most recently a 70,000 sq ft coffee and artisan street food, as mixed-use industrial development at well as traditional sandwiches. The Cavendish Avenue. new offering is the park’s latest investment in onsite amenities and Over 165 businesses and 6,000 has been introduced in response to employees now call Birchwood Park occupier demand. home, ranging from start-up’s and SMEs to global corporates. The park Martin O’Rourke, commercial director is also one of the key sites in the at Birchwood Park, commented: Cheshire Science Corridor Enterprise “Since the park’s inception it has Zone and is nationally recognised as been driven by our ethos that the UK’s hub for the Nuclear Services businesses should expect more from industry. High profile firms include their workplace – be that through Rolls-Royce Nuclear, Sellafield, Wood excellent amenities, transport Plc (formerly Amec Foster Wheeler) connections or a real community and Atkins. feel. It’s this ethos that has seen us repeatedly invest in creating a In the last 18 months, the park has vibrant business environment to rival been bolstered by a raft of lettings to any location in the North West, and international businesses, including it’s this which has continued to prove Ricoh, Müller, TATA and Dr Schär. a real draw for occupiers.” Blue Air celebrate 12 months based at LJLA Blue Air are celebrating their first Blue Air also operate flights from the The region’s travellers have been of customer service that we offer anniversary since opening their base Romanian cities of Bucharest, Cluj full of praise for the airline and their and we look forward to continued at Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Bacau carrying a further 100,000 support has helped to encourage Blue growth at Liverpool over the next 12 (LJLA) 12 months ago. passengers over the past year on Air to add more destinations from months.” these routes too. Liverpool, with flights due to start in Liverpool became Blue Air’s eighth June 2018 to Malaga and Palma. Paul Winfield, Director of Aviation European base in March 2017 with As well as benefiting the region’s Development for LJLA commented, the basing of one of the airline’s travellers, Blue Air’s decision to base All Blue Air passengers flying out “We are delighted to welcome Blue 144 seat Boeing 737-700 aircraft at one of their aircraft at Liverpool of Liverpool were treated to special Air’s first anniversary of their base LJLA. This aircraft has operated from had an immediate impact on the anniversary cakes as part of the operations at Liverpool John Lennon Liverpool to Rome, Milan and Alicante local economy too, with the airline celebrations. Airport. They are very much part throughout the past 12 months and creating 38 jobs for pilots, cabin crew carried over 140,000 passengers in and engineers. Whilst also providing Tudor Constantinescu, Blue Air’s of the airport family and we are what has been a successful year for direct access for more overseas Chief Commercial Officer said, “The delighted to see new routes to be the carrier. visitors to the Liverpool City Region. tremendous Liverpool welcome launched later this year to Malaga we received 12 months ago has and Palma. been followed by strong levels of “Their complimentary on board food support that have enabled us to Aimee beats the odds to secure further expand our operations from and drink allow passengers from Liverpool. across the North West to travel to their favourite destinations in style, Cambridge offer Our passengers appreciate the great from the Fastest, Friendliest and value for money and high levels Easiest Airport in the North West.”

A STUDENT who enjoys solving linguistic problems has conquered one of the biggest challenges of all – how to secure a place at Cambridge. Aimee Cartwright, who is currently studying A-Levels at Priestley College, faced a day of interviews and tests at the university before receiving an offer. In doing so, she becomes the first member of her immediate family to LJLA’s Aviation Development Manager Declan Maguire (far left) and Paul secure a place at university. Winfield (3rd from right) join Blue Air cabin crew to celebrate today’s anniversary. Insight 7 April 2018 April 2018 2018 brings continued growth for LJLA he first two months of 2018 have seen a continued increase in Tpassenger throughput at Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) with passenger numbers up 3% for the year to date compared to the same period in 2017. With 2% growth in January and 4% Air to operate new flights to Palma growth in February, almost 20,000 and Malaga, easyJet to serve Pula, more passengers have chosen Dalaman and Palermo and Ryanair to use Liverpool so far this year to fly to Shannon. compared to last and it has been the busiest January and February Paul Winfield, Director of Aviation period since 2010. Development for LJLA commented, “2018 is already proving to be A mix of warmer and colder another good year for the Airport leisure destinations have been with encouraging passenger proving popular with the region’s numbers using Liverpool. The travellers. Many passengers have Airport has seen 70,000 more been choosing to take advantage passengers use Liverpool than in of flights to warmer destinations including Alicante in southern February three years ago. Spain and Lanzarote in the Canary The North West market is the largest Islands, whilst others have been aviation market outside London heading off in search of even more and by focusing on our best in class snow despite the recent wintery operational performance and high spell, with destinations such as levels of customer satisfaction, Geneva and Salzburg proving Liverpool is becoming the ‘Faster, popular with the region’s skiers. Easier, Friendlier’ airport of choice Growth is expected to continue for more and more passengers during the year with six new routes as passengers take advantage of having already been announced direct flights to over 60 short haul from Liverpool for 2018 with Blue destinations.” Aspire Computers welcome new IT Support Apprentice CHAMBER members Aspire welcome Ethan who has integrated Computers Ltd., as part of their very well with the team so far. We continued commitment for growth look forward to partnering with and development, are proud Baltic Training for completion of to announce the addition of an another apprenticeship, following IT technical apprentice to their on from the positive experience existing team. gained during Sophy Bostock’s Social Media and Digital Marketing Ethan Clarke aged 18, joined the apprenticeship.’ team in March providing in-house support, initially manning the Aspire Computers Ltd. work with helpdesk and performing remote Warrington based businesses system diagnostics and repairs. providing IT support, hardware His two year apprenticeship is supply, data backups, enhanced supported by Baltic Training security, cloud based hosted Services who provide the Level exchange email, Microsoft Office 3 Infrastructure Technician software, websites and social TUI UK launches new Dalaman qualification, with experienced media support. IT staff at Aspire adding practical route from Liverpool for experience and mentoring in their Contact Aspire Computers on central Warrington workshop. 01925 251143 Summer 2019 Aspire Director, Geoff Plass Website: www.aspire-computers. TUI UK’s first programme launch of Liverpool John Lennon Airport commented, ‘ We are very pleased to com after last year’s re-brand unveils adding 6,000 additional seats a new route to Dalaman, Turkey and launching our new route to from Liverpool John Lennon Dalaman for summer 2019.” Airport for summer 2019. Paul Winfield, Director of The new summer programme Aviation Development for for customers travelling from LJLA commented: “This latest Liverpool and the surrounding development by TUI at Liverpool area next summer reflects the is great news for the Airport with resurgence of Turkey. this new service to Dalaman TUI UK’s Commercial Director complementing TUI’s existing Richard Sofer said: “Summer 2019 services to Palma and Ibiza from is the most ambitious programme here. This new departure will give we have ever introduced. We are many more TUI customers the focusing firmly on expanding opportunity to choose to fly from access to our amazing range of Liverpool - the region’s faster, holidays through an extended easier, friendlier airport.” regional flying programming concentrated on the core Thousands of free kids’ places will destinations holidaymakers want be available across all TUI and to travel to, while offering the First Choice holidays and deposits flexibility of holiday duration they will be just £50pp short and want. mid haul and £125pp long haul. Summer 2019 holidays will be on “We’ve increased our capacity out sale from Thursday 5th April.

8 Insight April 2018 April 2018 EU businesses say goodbye to UK suppliers as Brexit bites Brexit survey carried out by the UK organisation which represents organisation’s operations will no come in addition to the daily impact Athe procurement profession has found that 63% of EU customers are longer be viable. of currency fluctuation with 64% of moving away from placing business with UK companies. UK businesses saying this has made Supply chain managers are clear their supply chains more expensive The survey by the Chartered Institute The survey of 1,118 supply chain where the Government should of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) managers in the UK and Europe to manage. Businesses are still focus as the next phase of the not doing enough to adequately found that nearly two-thirds of EU also finds that two fifths (40%) of negotiations begin with 73% saying businesses expect to move their UK businesses with EU suppliers prepare however. Only 14% of UK keeping tariffs and quotas between businesses with EU suppliers feel supply chain out of the UK. Mark have begun the search for domestic the UK and Europe to a minimum Parker, Head of Centre for Aspire suppliers to replace their EU like they are sufficiently prepared should be the main priority for the for Brexit. Procurement Training Ltd, who partners, up from 31% in May. Just negotiations. are the CIPS Centre of Excellence over a quarter (26%), however, are Gerry Walsh, Group CEO, for Warrington commented, “This taking the opposite approach and The supply chain cost of Brexit CIPS, commented: “The Brexit will significantly reduce the current investing more time to strengthen UK businesses suffering extra costs negotiating teams promise that amount which the UK exports to their relationship with valuable progress will be made soon, but the EU and is further evidence of suppliers on the Continent. as a result of currency fluctuation 64% it is already too late for scores of the damage Brexit will cause to the businesses who look like they will UK economy. If we lose 63% of our The shift comes as the Brexit negotiations appear to be EU businesses who plan to move be deserted by their European £160 billion EU export market then their supply chains out of the UK partners. British businesses we will all pay the price for Brexit.” deadlocked with half of UK businesses saying they are 63% simply cannot put their suppliers becoming less confident that and customers on hold while the The survey also found that two- UK businesses struggling to secure fifths (40%) of UK businesses are the UK and EU will secure a deal negotiators get their act together. looking to replace their EU suppliers which continues to offer ‘free and contracts that run until after March frictionless trade’, while 35% of UK 2019, 20% “While the TV cameras are fixed 25% of large UK businesses* have businesses feel unable to prepare on Brussels, the deals which will spent over £100,000 preparing UK businesses that have postponed determine the future prosperity of due to the lack of progress on a or cancelled contracts due to the their supply chains for Brexit future trade relationship. Britain and Europe are being struck uncertainty created 15% behind closed doors in businesses Nearly two-thirds (63%) of EU This uncertainty has meant that Large* UK businesses who have large and small. The lack of clarity businesses who work with UK one in five (20%) UK businesses coming from both sides is already suppliers expect to move some of spent more than £100,000 with EU suppliers have found it preparing for Brexit 25% shaping the British economy of their supply chain out of the UK difficult to secure contracts that the future – and it does not fill as a result of Brexit according to a run after March 2019. Indeed, The cost of preparing for Brexit businesses with confidence. survey from the Chartered Institute despite a formal separation still of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). being some time away, nearly one A quarter (25%) of UK businesses “The success of the negotiations This is a dramatic shift from May, in ten (8%) of UK businesses said with more than 250 employees* should not be measured on the when just 44% of EU businesses their organisation has already lost have already spent at least final deal only but on how quickly were expecting to move out of the contracts as a result of Brexit with £100,000 preparing their supply both sides can provide certainty. UK. 14% believing part or all of their chain for the split. These costs The clock is ticking.” Tim and Johnathan did not die in vain – Warrington remembers 25 years on THE two youngsters who died Minister, a town centre clergyman A Final Song was then performed by victims and their families. following the IRA bomb attack on 25 years ago. the Male Voice and Schools’ choirs: Warrington 25 years ago today, Tim “Something inside so strong’ Former deputy leader of the Parry and Johnathan Ball – did not The Warrington Male Voice Choir council Cllr Mike Hannon and die in vain. sang ‘Across the Bridge of Hope.’ Following the service on Bridge Rev Kingsnorth were both made Street HRH the Princess Royal, Honorary Patrons following the These were the words of Tim’s There were reflections from visited Warrington Peace Centre, event in recognition of their father Colin Parry as he recalled the children of 25 years ago: Tim where she met peace campaigners great work towards peace and tragedy which changed the lines of Parry’s friend Gareth Boldsworth Colin and Wendy Parry and other reconciliation. many when two bombs exploded and Ruth Picucci, whose handprint on Bridge Street, killing the two is moulded in the River of Life boys and injuring more than 50 Words were also said by Tim shoppers. Parry’s nieces, Isla and Evie, A special service of remembrance, accompanied by Olivia and Arthur attended by HRH The Princess and Hannah Evans, daughter of Royal, Princess Anne, was led by Bronwen, a victim of the tragedy former Borough Minister Revd. who died a year after the bombing, Stephen Kingsnorth, with music accompanied by her sister Harriet from pupils from Great Sankey High Vickers School and Barrowhall Primary School and Warrington Male Voice Reflections were led by The Rev Choir. Ian Elliott & Canon Christopher Cunningham, town centre clergy in Hundreds of people lined the streets Warrington, 25 years ago: to pay their respects as Warrington again showed the world how to Following a minutes silence Sankey respond to atrocity with dignity. High School and Barrow Hall Primary School sang John Lennon’s Addressing the crowds Mr Parry ‘Imagine.’ said: “This is a poignant day for the families of those killed and injured Faith leaders then lead a blessing… and reflect with pride on how as a The Chair of the Council of Faiths, town and victims responded with Afthkar Quayyum; dignity. The Free Church Moderator’s “Wendy and I were determined that Representative, The Rev David Tim did not die in vain. Looking Easton; back at how events unfolded I can tell you neither Tim or Johnathan Of the Roman Catholic Church, died in vain.” Bishop of the Liverpool Archdiocese, The memorial service was Led The Rt Rev Thomas Williams; Of by Freeman of the Borough, The the Anglican Church, the Bishop Rev Stephen Kingsnorth M.A., of Warrington, the Rt Rev Richard until recently Warrington Borough Blackburn: Insight 9 April 2018 April 2018 UKTI e-Exporting programme Y joining UKTI e-Exporting Programme, UK companies and brands can By selling through an [email protected]. Breach consumers through e-marketplaces. e-marketplace UK companies uk if you’re interested in joining can: the programme or need more An e-market is an online location Popular e-marketplaces include information. that provides a platform for Amazon, Tmail and ebay. UKTI have • Find new customers companies of all sizes to do identified over 400 e-marketplaces • Analyse date on what consumers UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) business through e-commerce. worldwide. are searching for with its team of expert advisers located across the globe, can • Build awareness of their brands help you fulfil your international Join UKTI’s e-Exporting ambitions. It can assist you programme to: at all stages of the business When you realise your filters AR-GON • Meet with an e-Exporting advisor planning cycle, from inception to discuss export plans to completion. Whether you’re a and production comes to a halt seasoned exporter or just beginning • Receive help and advice on Downtime is dangerous to any completed within 6 hours ready building your online an e to expand overseas, talking to UKTI manufacturing group. After all, for collection as requested by the commerce presence is one of the best moves your the old saying that compares time customer. As the normal process company can make. to money is true. If people or of obtaining such a filter from most • Increase the reach of your brand globally Through a range of unique machines are idle, then products suppliers can be anything from services, including tailored support are not being made, which certainly 3 days to 6 weeks Croft were the • Identify new e-marketplace programmes, participation at affects the business’s bottom line obvious choice to help and the gas around the world selected trade fairs, outward — minimizing manufacturing company were up and running the • Set up on e-marketplaces around missions and providing bespoke downtime makes money for a next morning back to normal. the world market intelligence, we can help company. • Set up on e-marketplaces quickly you crack foreign markets and So when a world leading industrial get to grips quickly with oversea gas company came into a critical • Attend events and webinars regulations and business practice. situation where production stopped about retail/e-commerce opportunities For further information please of their Argon manufacturing line contact Warrington Chamber of due to having no replacement How to Join Commerce on 01925-715150 or in-line filter – Croft Filters Ltd Email UKTI’s retail team [email protected] (Warrington) came to the rescue. Croft is a bespoke filter manufacturer who can also react quickly to supply an urgent requirement within hours of the request from the customer by use of their priority service. In this particular case the gas company provided the dimensions and specifications for the filter needed (a combined mesh and perforated plate constructed witches hat Export Documentation Services strainer) and Croft had the filter As you develop your international trade activity the Warrington Chamber of Commerce can assist you with all the documentation you need to export your goods and services easily. All our staff have passed the required training to become British Chambers approved documentation officers and Ryanair adds Paphos to destinations are able to provide the following services: Ryanair have added Paphos in Cyprus to their growing list of destinations from • Certification of European Certificates of Origin Liverpool with flights to the Mediterranean island to start at the end of October, • Certification and Legalisation of Arab Certificates of Origin for the Winter 2018/19 season. • Certification of agency agreements, invoices, other documents Flights will operate twice weekly on Sundays and Wednesdays, commencing on • Certification of EUR1 movement certificates 28th October 2018 with prices starting at just £38.99 one way with passengers • Certification of ATR movement certificates able to book flights as far out as March 2019. • Certification of EUR-MED movement certificates • Certification of GSP Form A preference certificates Paphos takes the number of routes operated by Ryanair from Liverpool to 33 • Advice on import and export procedures and follows last month’s news that Ryanair will recommence flights to Shannon from Liverpool for Summer 2018. (This service is available electronically) Paul Winfield, Director of Aviation Development for LJLA commented, “We are delighted to see Ryanair take the opportunity to add flights to Paphos from Chamber members receive a Liverpool which is on one of the largest unserved markets from here. This new service will allow passengers from across the North West to fly to Paphos from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and enjoy a best in class passenger 50% discount experience.” on all European certification, EUR1 and ATR services. Ryanair’s Robin Kiely added, “We are pleased to launch this new route from Liverpool to Paphos in Cyprus with a twice weekly service from the end of October, as part of our Winter 2018 schedule which goes on sale at the Ryanair. Call 01925 715150 com website. for more information and details of our prices.

Advertising Rates The copy deadline for the next edition B&W Colour of Insight magazine is Classified £13+VAT Eighth Page £50+VAT £75+VAT Monday, April 16 Quarter Page £125+VAT £188+VAT Half Page £188+VAT £250+VAT Please email your news stories and Full Page £250+VAT £313+VAT pictures to the Editor at our NEW email address: Chamber members 20% DISCOUNT [email protected] 10 Insight April 2018 April 2018 Ice Skating success for University of Chester student University of Chester student has won the Trophy d’Ecosse in Dumfries, Gina is coached by Sam Ozard, a “She has developed her own Scotland with her synchronised ice skating team, Bladerunners. British junior medallist for Great personal knowledge and A Britain, and international junior successfully gained her Level One The Trophy d’Ecosse is an the opportunity to compete in the and senior competitor. Sam Coaching Certificate and has been International Skating Union World Championships. said: “It has been wonderful to a good help to me with the younger (ISU) competition for teams Gina said: “I find the British see Gina grow in confidence as skaters. It is a pleasure to teach of synchronised ice skaters. Championships very exciting as she has skated with her Synchro her.” Bladerunners achieved first each year it grows with more teams teams through the years, not only place in the adult category of the In total Gina has won 22 medals, competing. This year there were in her own skating ability but in seven of which were gold. She won competition, beating international 63 teams competing in a number personality too. She has shown teams from across the world. two of these gold medals at the of categories with a total of 1,262 great dedication, training at 6am British Championships in 2010 and Gina Rimmer, aged 20, studies skaters. Since Dancing On Ice has for years and her hard work has 2017. She has travelled to Scotland, Marketing with Business and is part come back on TV, we have lots paid off, resulting in her becoming Belgium and Hungary to compete of the winning synchronised ice of the stars training at our rink, the British Adult Champion 2017 in various competitions where she skating adult team, Bladerunners. Altrincham Planet Ice, including and has successfully helped her has competed against teams from She said: “We were over the moon Brooke Vincent from Coronation team improve over the last year to around the world. Gina competes at beating our main competition, Street. She even came to a training gain more skills and improve their alongside University of Chester who ended up coming second. Even session of ours and skated with us score at the British Championships alumna Alice Williamson in the though we were competing against all!” 2018. same team. each other, it was a very friendly and supportive atmosphere. It was a lovely competition with lots of international teams - we even got to see the world champions Nexxice skate, which was just incredible.” Synchronised ice skating is a team sport where up to 20 skaters move together as one unit to create flawless routines. The team performs to music and includes specific technical ice skating elements and dance steps. Bladerunners also came second at the British Championships in Nottingham earlier this year, achieving a personal best score. The British Championships are held every year for all abilities, from beginners to seniors, and offers Left – right: Sofia Farrugia, Gina Rimmer and Alice Williamson at the Trophy d’Ecosse.

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